The major oil leak on my 94 3.0 4-runner suddenly got so much worse it was easy to see it coming out between the oil pan and the block all around, not just in back. Looking carefully I can see that someone used a cork gasket and that is why the bolts were loose. I need to re-do it with the proper sealant.

But can the pan be taken off without pulling the engine? It looks like I could get it off by removing the steering tie rod, anyone know?

Thanks!

 

I helped a guy who used to (maybe still does) post on here who tried this.

He had a TON of the front end apart when I came over with the tie-rod puller!
We were able to get the pan out eventually, but it wasn't the easiest way.

You really want to pull the front differential out of the way. It is only 24 bolts. including the skid.

 

Or you can pull the 4 engine mount bolts and raise it up enough to get the oil pan out.

I would suggest pulling the diff or at least getting it out of the way via lowering it. That will make the intall SOOOOO easy.

 

Yes...I say drop the front diff so you can drop the pan past the pickup. Go to toyota and get a tube of black FIPG. The stuff is the best sealant. There is also a windage tray between the block and pan you should reseal since you are there

 

OK, thanks guys. I'll tear into it in 2008.

Happy New Year!

JIM

 

HaHaHaHaHa.

Damn that makes my SAS worth it right there. LOL! Good Luck with that. I don't envy you.

 

you can unbolt the front diff housing from the frame and leave it attached to the axles and just let it hang down, this will give you the room you need.