Oil Pan Gasket Replacement 2001, 4CYL
Admittedly, although fairly proficient in tools and mechanical comprehension, I am by no means a car buff. After getting my Ranger (2001, 4cyl, 2WD) inspected today as a result of recent oil problems, I found out that my Oil Pan Gasket needs to be replaced. Since Meineke doesn't do anything that requires the engine to be lifted, they told me to try looking elsewhere to get the job done. Tried calling a nearby Ford Dealer and got a quote for around $1700 (Again, due to having to raise the engine..).
After looking around online, I've seen a mix of answers, some ranging from being able to change the gasket without raising the engine, to others saying that its a complex problem that requires an expert to solve. Since I live on a Military base, I have access to virtually every tool imaginable, engine and car lifts, and a limited supply of help from the guys who run the car care shop. The only issue is that I would have to perform all of the work myself.
That being said, I was hoping someone would have some type of insight as to:
-Whether or not I was quoted fairly
-Doing the work myself, with the correct tools but little experience
-Whether or not I can replace the gasket without even lifting the engine
Any help in the matter would be appreciated, since I'm now trying to weight the options of fixing it myself and potentially ruining the engine, paying almost half the value of my truck to get it fixed, or just trading it as is and getting a new vehicle.
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