Is there a definitive answer, preferably by someone who has done it, as to whether or not the oil pan gasket on a 2000 Ranger Trailhead Edition can be replaced simply by dropping the oil pan...or does the engine need to be raised up as with some of the other models. With the torsion bar front suspension, it sure looks like there is enough room to lower the pan enough to clear the oil pump, but I don't know how the pump is configured. I don't want to start this job only to find I need to jack the engine off of its mounts, remove the engine, unbolt the transmission or any of the other scenarios I've read about. Thanks for any help!

 

4wd? engine has to come out. 2wd should be able to swap in the frame.

 

On my 2003 Ranger Edge (Torsion Bar) 4x2 with a 3.0 and a manual trans, I was able to remove the pan, clean it out, and then reinstall it with a new gasket. I cannot say whether it would be possible with an automatic. 4x4 trucks would need the front axle removed.

And for those who stumble across this thread in the future, it is NOT possible on a coil spring truck.