As you may know from my other posts I have a new-to-me 2003 Ranger XLT, 2.3 DOHC w/ 235K miles. I already rebuilt the front suspension and am now working on gaskets for valve cover and intake manifold.

When I asked about other stuff to do with the intake manifold removed, EaOutlaw suggested removing/cleaning the oil separator and reinstalling with a new gasket. (Thanks!) The parts have arrived, I finished degreasing the exposed exterior surfaces (PITA going slow and keeping stuff out of the ports), and I have the weather and time to go back to work on it.....

QUESTION, will I have a huge oil spill if I remove the separator without draining the engine oil first? I'd rather not because right now the truck is parked on a steep hill (with wedged wheels). I was planning on getting back on the road then doing a sea foam treatment followed by an oil change in a buddy's level driveway. Thanks for more help!

 

UPDATE Sorry and nevermind... I decided to just go for it with a couple extra drop pans and a bunch of cardboard spread out... and all that was unnecessary. Came right out, no muss or fuss, if you don't count the hard to reach bolts.