OEM 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Van Crankshaft

2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Van Crankshaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to remove and install the crankshaft while the engine is on 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Van?

  A: Before removing the crankshaft from the vehicle, take off the transmission, next the oil pan and oil pump from the rear main bearing cap. The following step is to get rid of the vibration damper and the timing chain cover. Unscrew the set screws that hold the rod bearings to lift out the caps and bearings, but be sure to support the crankshaft so it won't drop and get harmed. Support the crankshaft, choose an appropriate jack and carefully remove the main bearing caps and bearings from the block, then only lower the crankshaft down. Take out the rear and front crankshaft oil seals. Make sure the cylinder block and rear cap mating surface is free of any gasket maker and sealant before you add Mopar Gasket Maker. Add tiny amounts of engine oil to the new upper seal lips and fit the white-facing upper rear bearing oil seal into place. Install the crankshaft into the cylinder block and then oil each lip of the new lower seal, then put the new lower rear bearing oil seal into the bearing cap with white paint visible at the back. Coat the bearing cap surfaces with 5 mm of Mopar Gasket Maker and assemble it to the cylinder block quickly after. Seat the bearing cap in the slot using the alignment dowel and bolts, try not to remove extra material when the parts are assembled and only strike the rear cap twice to join it securely. Wipe and oil every cap bolt, followed by installing all main bearing caps and tightening each cap bolt every other time to a torque of 115 Nm. Put in the oil pump, the timing chain cover and the vibration damper. Slide the connecting rod extensions onto the crankshaft and install the bearing caps, adding pressure until you reach 61 Nm on the rod nut. Smear a little Mopar Silicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant over the bearing cap where the joint is, making sure there's enough to squeeze out. After that, wipe away any extra sealant from the groove of the oil pan. After attaching the front crankshaft oil seal, quickly add the oil pan. Should the transmission be removed, attach it back in its right place.