Here's a breakdown of the process and why dropping components is usually unnecessary:
Procedure:
1. Preparation: This is crucial. Jack up the van securely on jack stands. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Drain the engine oil completely. You might want to use a drain pan larger than usual because some oil will remain in the pan even after draining.
2. Access: Get underneath the van. You'll need to maneuver around various components such as the steering linkage, exhaust system (be careful!), and possibly parts of the suspension. You might need to use a creeper and a good work light.
3. Remove Components (if necessary): Depending on your van's configuration, you *might* need to remove some smaller components to gain better access. This could include:
* Lower exhaust components: Possibly the catalytic converter or muffler. This is more likely if you have a dual exhaust system.
* Parts of the steering linkage: This is less common but possible depending on the specific clearance.
* Crossmember: Some vehicles might require removing a small portion of the crossmember. Do not do this unless absolutely necessary.
4. Remove the Oil Pan: Once you have good access, remove the oil pan bolts. These are typically located around the perimeter of the pan. Work slowly and carefully to avoid stripping the bolt threads. Have a pan underneath to catch the remaining oil. The oil pan may be relatively heavy, so be prepared to support it.
5. Clean the Oil Pan Gasket Surface: Carefully remove any old gasket material from both the engine block and the oil pan. Use a scraper and a solvent designed for this purpose.
6. Install New Gasket and Oil Pan: Apply a fresh oil pan gasket (ensure it's the correct one for your engine) to the engine block according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then carefully install the new oil pan, tightening the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
7. Refill with Oil: Once the oil pan is securely in place, lower the vehicle and refill with the appropriate amount of engine oil. Check for leaks.
Why Dropping the Transmission or Front End is Usually Unnecessary:
The oil pan sits relatively low on the engine. While the area is cramped, in most cases, careful maneuvering and potentially removing minor obstructing components should provide enough clearance. Dropping the transmission or front end is a significantly more involved process and should only be considered as a last resort if there's absolutely no other way to access the oil pan.
Important Considerations:
* Consult a Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1974 Dodge Sportsman with the 360 engine is highly recommended. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications for the oil pan bolts, and diagrams showing the location of all components.
* Safety First: Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle. Never rely solely on a jack.
* Take Pictures: Before removing anything, take pictures to help you remember how things go back together.
If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The job can be challenging due to limited access, and improperly reinstalling the oil pan can lead to leaks or damage.
