How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Lincoln Navigator

Taking care of repairs as they arise is the way to ensure that your Lincoln Navigator stays on the road for many years. This includes changing the oil pan gasket, should it wear out. If it's time to change the gasket in your Navigator, set aside at least a half day for the job. Here's how to change the oil pan gasket on a 1998 to 2002 Lincoln Navigator.

Things You'll Need

• Jack and jack stand
• Wheel blocks
• Large bucket
• Socket wrench
• Thin putty knife
• Replacement gasket
• Solvent
• Clean shop rags
• 6 to 7 qt. oil
• Empty milk carton

Instructions

1. Park the Lincoln Navigator on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Jack up the front of the vehicle and slide a jack stand under the hold it safely. Block the rear wheels to keep them from rolling. If your Navigator is a 4-by-4, remove the front axle housing.

2. Slide under the vehicle and locate the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Put a large bucket under the drain plug, and use a socket wrench to remove the plug. Let the old oil drain into the bucket. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug.

3. Remove the 16 bolts that hold the oil pan to the engine, and carefully lower the oil pan.

4. Clean off the old gasket with a thin putty knife or a similar tool, being very careful not to scrape the surface, then wipe it thoroughly with solvent and clean shop rags to be sure it's completely clean. Wipe out the inside of the drain pan.

5. Apply a new gasket and reattach the oil pan and tighten the bolt securely. If you removed the front axle housing, replace it now.

6. Raise the car enough to remove the jack stand, then lower the car and remove the jacks. Pour in about 6 qt. of clean oil, and then check the level with the dipstick, adding more if necessary to bring it to the fill line. Lincoln Navigators require between 6 and 7 qt. of oil.

7. Pour the old oil into an empty milk carton and dispose of it properly at a garage or a hazardous waste facility.