Do you have an article you'd
like to send in? (Members only)
SUBMIT
|
|
4.6L OIL FILTER ADAPTER GASKET REPLACEMENT
Submitted by Danatriverton /
02-28-04
Have you found a puddle of oil inside
the left front tire that looks like it might stem from a
power steering leak? Is the leak more noticeable when
it is cold? Since the oil pressure is higher when the
engine is cold (and the oil leak may stop as the engine warms
up and the oil pressure drops slightly), it could be time
to change the gasket between the oil filter adapter and the
engine block.
The part number for the improved gasket is F6AZ-6840-AA. It
is about 1/8" thick and fairly rigid. (There could also
be a coolant leak, for as well as the two oil passages there
is also the coolant inlet from the radiator.) |
 |
Let's
Get Started
- Turn off your air suspension with the switch in
the trunk if your car has air suspension.
- Turn your wheels all the way to the left for better
access.
- Drain the coolant. Use a fairly large bucket or
tub as the coolant hits the air dam and spreads out.
- Jack the car up at the left front jack pad. Jack
it up until the left front tire is off the ground
about 4 inches.
- Place a jack stand at the frame under the left
front door for safety.
- Remove the oil filter. You do not have to remove
the lower radiator hose to do this, it will allow
the adapter to move far enough out to be able to
remove the old gasket and slip in the new one. (The
gasket is similar to a head gasket in that it is
rigid and will not break when you remove it.
It almost falls out. I do not think it could
break and leave part still in position.
Also you have a very good view into the area and
you can inspect both surfaces without removing the
radiator hose.) There are four bolts holding the
adapter to the block. You can reach them with a ratchet
and two 6 inch extensions. You do not need a universal
joint on the extension.
- Remove the old gasket.
- Slide the new one in and start the bolts. Do not
tighten them until all are started so that the gasket
is seated right. When you tighten the bolts alternate
between them to avoid overstressing the oil filter
adapter and possibly cracking the casting.
- Re-install the filter.
Editors note: this might be a good time to replace
the oil and filter to minimize the risk of contaminants.
- Pour the coolant back in.
Start the car and check for leaks. Remove the jack stand and
jack. ---- You're done!
Editors note: if your vehicle
has air suspension, don't forget
to turn it back on! |
|
|
|
|
|