- This topic has 9 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 11 years, 6 months ago by
.
-
Topic
-
-
Replies
-
If you verified all bolts are out try tapping around the perimeter with a dead blow hammer or a reg hammer with a block of wood as a cushion. sometimes the dowel pins hold on for dear life.
I’ve tried that. Now, I should mention I am trying something different in that the engine is still complete and connected still inside the van. I’m underneath trying to do this. I am going to try and replace the bearings because of what I feel is a bad thrust bearing.
I would think trying to remove the main bearings with disassembly of the top would cause even further damage, would it not?
As it stands now the recommendation is a new engine. I’m still paying on this thing and I’m broke so I figured “what the heck” lol. I’ve read some forums online where people “think” it can be done but I don’t know for sure. The crankshaft has waaaayy too much play and keeps throwing the front seal out.
According to this procedure.They say the engine needs
to come out.http://www.justanswer.com/dodge/5gcmt-dodge-caravan-2007-dodge-caravan-2-4-excessive-oil-leak.html
Yes I’ve seen that. He’s is talking about the “official” service bulletin issued from Chrysler to Chrysler mechanics. But I’m not able to remove the engine right now, so I was just wondering if anyone knew how to drop the bedplate while engine is in the vehicle. I’ve just about got it done, but I may have to remove the front section, too, where the oil pump is.
[quote=”bpmorris2000″ post=55815]… I was just wondering if anyone knew how to drop the bedplate while engine is in the vehicle….[/quote]
I really can’t and don’t recommend doing this in the van. Basically, you’re replacing the main bearings on the crankshaft. It will be almost impossible to measure clearances/endplay, install bearings and torque bolts correctly. The rule of thumb I use is: accessories, top end, pistons/rods, crank seals – OK in the vehicle; crankshaft or balance shafts – pull the engine first. This is because of part weight, access problems and probable damage to parts.
That said, the bedplate/bearing cap assembly is held in place with about 20 bolts (10 around the perimeter, and 10 along the main bearing caps. Count and ensure all are removed. Then gently tap around the perimeter with a soft-face hammer. It should pop loose.
Good Luck and keep us up to date. I’ll be interested in how this turns out.
Moparfan7008I think it’s a bad idea to try and replace the bearings inside the van. Especially since the procedure calls for removal of the engine. In addition you MUST do this properly, if not then you could damage the engine beyond repair.
Thanks to everyone for your help. I figure I probably need to replace the engine per recommendations anyway, so I have proceeded with my plan. I have the bed plate off and I have removed the thrust bearing. It was definitely the reason for the front seal popping out. One side of the thrust bearing has worn down considerably, scoring the crankshaft journal on that side that touches the thrust bearing. I have attached pictures of the good side of the bearing and the bad side. Check it out.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.