New Oil Pan Problem 2010 Journey 3.5 V6

[Davey]

Hi:

 

I have a 2010 Journey R/T with 108000 on the clock (Km)

 

Took it in to have a new oil pan put on and the nightmare started.

 

Garage called and said two bolts would not come out, were just spinning

 

Went to have a look.   At the gearbox side of the oil pan there's a thin sheet of metal that is part of the rear crankshaft seal mounting plate that's between the engine and the gearbox.  There are two holes in the right angle at the base of the plate through which the two bolts for the oil pan go through into two nuts resting on the right angled plate edge. these nuts were spinning and there's no access to grip the nuts without distorting the  thin plate which would create an oil leak. The nuts must have come loose at some point as they are tack welded to the plate. I'm guessing that someone was too eager with the power air wrench in tightening the bolts at some point and broke the weak welds.

 

The only solution is to pull the engine out at great expense and replace the one piece oil seal and plate!   But the question is:  do I pull the gearbox or the engine? or both? 

 

[5rebel9]

Either way is a PITA! But I would say less things involved to pull the trans if it is a FWD. Even if an AWD I'd still go for trans, but a lot more work. 

By YEARS, you are due for a timing belt replacement, and it's a lot easier to do with the ENGINE out. Most folks try and get away without doing the belt and waterpump....then cry when the belt snaps or sheds cog teeth and ruins the guts of the INTERFERENCE MOTOR. 

YOU have some decisions to make...GOOD LUCK and keep us here posted on how you go.

Edited June 29, 2023 by 5rebel9

[Davey]

5Rebel9:

 

Thanks for the advice.  The engine's going to come out so the timing belt kit (belt, water pump, tensioner etc) can go one. Yes it's extra labour but better to do the whole kit while it's out.

 

Will let you know how it goes!