Genuine 1997 Ford Ranger Oil Pan

1997 Ford Ranger Oil Pan Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q:

  How to remove and install the oil pan assembly in 4.0L SOHC V6 engine on 1997 Ford Ranger?

  Posted by Lizandro A.

  A:

  The full assembly of oil pan is a lower sheet metal oil pan and an upper aluminum casting that adds strength to the crankcase. The lower steel pan and pump pick-up/screen can be detached with the engine still in situ , however the reinforcement section cannot be accessed without removal of the engine. First, unbolt and disconnected the engine from the car to be serviced, next, as for the oil pan, there are lower oil pan fasteners and a sheet metal oil pan. Subsequently, remove the oil pump screen cover and tube, the eight center bolts of the reinforcement part, and the two rear bolts and the outside bolts of both sides. When removing the reinforcement section from within the block remember not to pry on any gasket sealing surface. For installation you need to ensure clearance with spacers around the oil pan and transmission; to do so may cause scratching or leakage; the engine has to be taken off the stand for this check. This special attention's area has to be cleaned from all the rests of the old gasket material using a scraper and solvent with extra care paying to the engine block, reinforcement section, and oil pan. 8 bolts of the reinforcement section will be threaded into the main cap bolt heads of the V-Sport for optimum rigidity, while threaded inserts should be backed out to the 'index' position before fitting. Use RTV sealant with the rear main cap and front cover with right sealing of joints. Place new gaskets on the engine block, place the reinforcement section and tighten the side rail bolts loosely. The gap of the car transmission mounting surface to the reinforcement section should be not more than 0.010-inch; if need be, make adjustments. Tighten all perimeter bolts/nuts and the reinforcement section threaded inserts to the torque spec, the interior reinforcement section bolts and put new seal on front bolts. Once more go through the clearance check and then fit the oil pump pickup tube, a new oil pan gasket, and the oil pan by using the appropriate bolts and tightening them to the standard required torque.

  Answered by Ford Parts Specialist George / Jun 29, 2025