Hey folks,
Just wanted to know if I really have to jack the engine up 13" to remove the oil pan like the Haynes manual says. I have a 2002 E250 with a 4.2. The engine has a tap and I think it is probably a lifter but I want to inspect the botom end anyhow just to be safe. Thanks

 

if you have a scope that is like you see a doctor wear around his neck those have a rod that pick up noises just by touching the oil pan and or the valve covers you can hear the noise the engine makes like the lifters rods and bearings. it would be cheaper by a long shot than having to replace the gaskets or alot less work than what you intend to do.

 

To answer the question, yes, you really do have to jack them up a good bit to get the pan off. It sucks, but I'd be willing to bet that if you have a lifter noise out of a 4.2, there's something that you probably don't want to deal with in the pan. Good luck!

 

Thanks for the tips guys.

 

If it is a lifter, you could always try to add a 1/2 - 1 qt ATF to the motor oil and run it a while. Has freed up stuck, dirty, lifters for me a few times . If it does the job, unless the pan gasket is becoming a problem why get involved in so much extra work.