This process will vary slightly depending on the engine (e.g., 3.9L, 4.7L, 5.2L, 5.9L). You'll need a detailed repair manual specific to your Durango's engine for precise instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual would be helpful.
Here's a general overview of the steps involved. Remember, this is a simplified guide, and you should consult your repair manual for specific details and safety precautions:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools and Supplies: You'll need a variety of tools, including sockets, wrenches (metric), a torque wrench, jack stands, drain pan, oil filter wrench, new oil pump gasket(s), new oil pump, possibly a timing chain cover gasket, new oil and filter, and potentially a new oil pump pickup tube.
* Raise and Support the Vehicle: Securely lift the Durango and place it on jack stands.
2. Drain the Oil:
* Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan.
* Position the drain pan underneath.
* Carefully remove the drain plug and let the oil drain completely.
3. Remove the Oil Pan:
* This step varies greatly depending on the engine. You likely need to remove various components such as the skid plate, various sensors, and potentially some engine mounts to gain access. The repair manual is crucial here.
* Once access is clear, carefully remove the oil pan bolts.
4. Access the Oil Pump:
* The oil pump is usually located within the oil pan or attached to the timing chain cover. The complexity of accessing it again depends heavily on the engine. You might need to remove the timing chain cover itself, possibly requiring timing chain alignment tools.
5. Remove the Old Oil Pump:
* Carefully remove the old oil pump, paying close attention to the gasket. Note the orientation of the pump before removing it.
6. Install the New Oil Pump:
* Carefully install the new oil pump, ensuring the gasket is properly seated.
* Follow the repair manual precisely for torque specifications on the oil pump mounting bolts.
7. Reassemble:
* Reinstall the oil pan, ensuring the gasket is properly seated.
* Reinstall all removed components in reverse order of removal. Refer to the repair manual for torque specifications for all bolts and nuts.
8. Refill with Oil and Filter:
* Reinstall the oil drain plug.
* Install a new oil filter.
* Fill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil (check your owner's manual).
9. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks:
* Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
* Check for any oil leaks around the oil pan and oil pump.
* Check the oil pressure gauge.
Important Considerations:
* Timing Chain/Belt: If you have to remove the timing chain cover, you'll need to be extremely careful to properly align the timing chain or belt before reassembly. Incorrect alignment can severely damage the engine.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and follow the specified torque values in your repair manual. Over-tightening or under-tightening can lead to leaks or damage.
* Gaskets: Replace all gaskets and seals as needed. Reusing old gaskets can lead to leaks.
This is a significantly complex repair. Again, unless you have extensive automotive experience and the proper tools and repair manual, it's strongly recommended to have a professional mechanic perform this repair. A failed oil pump can cause catastrophic engine damage.
