Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Drain pan: A large capacity one is recommended.
* Wrench set: Metric sockets and wrenches, including a socket that fits the oil pan bolts. You might need various sizes.
* Socket extensions and ratchets: To reach difficult-to-access bolts.
* Oil filter wrench: To remove the oil filter (recommended to do this before the oil pan).
* Pliers or a screwdriver: For removing any clips or fasteners holding the oil pan in place.
* Torque wrench: To tighten the bolts to the correct specification after reinstallation.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Shop rags or paper towels: For cleanup.
* New oil pan gasket: Essential for a proper seal. Possibly RTV silicone sealant as well, depending on the design.
* New oil and filter: Don't forget to replace these after the job.
* Possibly a scraper: To remove old gasket material.
* Clean workspace: Keep the area beneath the vehicle clean to avoid contaminating the new oil.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park the Durango on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Raise the vehicle using a jack and securely support it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Drain the Oil: Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan and position the drain pan underneath. Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug, letting the oil drain completely. This is important to minimize the amount of oil spilled when removing the pan.
3. Remove Oil Filter (Optional but Recommended): Remove the oil filter before removing the pan; this helps prevent excess oil from spilling.
4. Disconnect Components: You may need to disconnect some components to gain access to the oil pan. This could include the exhaust system (depending on the specific Durango model) or other lower components. Consult your repair manual to determine what needs to be disconnected, if anything.
5. Remove Oil Pan Bolts: Carefully remove all the bolts securing the oil pan to the engine block. They're usually located around the perimeter of the pan. Keep track of where each bolt came from, as some might be different lengths.
6. Lower the Oil Pan: Once all bolts are removed, gently lower the oil pan. There might be some resistance due to the old gasket. Work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the pan or the engine block. Be prepared for more oil to spill.
7. Clean the Surfaces: Remove the old gasket material from both the engine block and the oil pan using a scraper. Clean both surfaces thoroughly with a suitable solvent (check your repair manual for recommendations).
8. Install the New Gasket: Apply a new gasket to the oil pan according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some gaskets may require the use of RTV silicone sealant in addition to the gasket itself.
9. Install the Oil Pan: Carefully position the oil pan onto the engine block, aligning it with the mounting holes.
10. Tighten the Bolts: Install the bolts and tighten them to the correct torque specification. Use a torque wrench to prevent over-tightening, which can damage the pan or the engine block.
11. Reconnect Components: Reattach any components you disconnected earlier.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
13. Refill with Oil and Filter: Replace the oil filter and refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil as specified in your owner's manual.
14. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil pan.
Important Notes:
* This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1999 Dodge Durango for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
* If you're not comfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
This is a complex job, and improperly completing it can result in engine damage. If you're not mechanically inclined, seeking professional help is strongly recommended.
