Wheelin’ Trip Hidden Falls

[JamesAndTheSahara]

Was leaking a little oil, I think from the drain plug, due to the awful ledge, see pics in post #1^^^. The rubber washer was torn, so I replaced the plug and will see if it solves it. Leak was so slow I don’t have drips in the garage, gauge reads normal and dipstick says full.

If this doesn’t stop it, I’ll look into fixing the oil pan. Anyone ever removed the oil pan and beat out a section? I’m only concerned right where the drain plug is, it’s not 100% flat, so on one side it’s bent toward the plug, creating a small concave shape.

Other issue is if I have to replace the oil pan, I noticed that I need one with baffles. Is this correct? Does the baffling keep the engine from running dry when wheelin uphill?

Its up to you on if you want to try it. Members like Jerry have dented their oil pans worse than that & just put a skid under it (Although his wasn't leaking). If it leaks, try reshaping it & if that doesn't fix it replace the oil pan. The only reason I would suggest going with an oil pan replacement straight away is if you want to avoid paying $20.00 for a fel-pro gasket every time you replace it.

Mopar Oil pan is $189.99 on Morris4x4 so I could understand if you wanted to try & fix it .

On the baffling, my impression is the oil pan for the 4.0 was the same 97-06, Morris4x4 has the same fitment information: https://www.morris4x4center.com/oil-pan-53010340ab.html.

 

[JMT]

If it will stop leaking I’ll just stay with it and cover with my UCF deep cover skid system in Jan-Feb. Why fix it if it ain’t really broke!?

 

[JamesAndTheSahara]

If it will stop leaking I’ll just stay with it and cover with my UCF deep cover skid system in Jan-Feb. Why fix it if it ain’t really broke!?

Waiting on seeing that happen! UCF is a local shop to us down here in Alabama & interested in some fab work by them.

I agree, these TJ's are too dang sensitive to fix what aint broke .

 

[Rob5589]

The plug on mine leaked, rubber washer/seal was hardened and it no longer sealed. Replacement sealed it fine. Depending on how bad your pan is, you may be better off replacing it. Baffles generally keep oil around the pick up to avoid starvation be it under hard acceleration or extreme angles.