How to Check for Sludge in a 2.7 Chrysler
The 2.7l engine found in some Chrysler and Dodge vehicles has a small problem that creates sludge in the engine. The problem is that coolant leaks into the oil system from a manufacturing defect in the water pump, causing the oil to turn to sludge. This causes the oil to lose effectiveness, and eventually the engine could seize up and fail. To find out if your 2.7l engine has a problem, you'll need to remove the oil pan and visually inspect for sludge in the oil.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Park the Chrysler and put on the parking brake. Lift the front of the car using a jack and slide two jack stands under the body to hold up the vehicle.
-
2
Put the drain pan under the oil pan. Open the drain plug with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket and let the oil drain into the pan. Visually inspect the oil for any early signs of sludge, such as chunks in the oil, a tint the color of antifreeze or coolant or a thickness akin to molasses.
-
-
3
Unbolt the oil dipstick from the engine with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Unbolt the structural collar located at the rear section of the oil pan from the engine and the transmission with the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets.
-
4
Unbolt the oil pan from the bottom of the engine with the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets and lower the oil pan from the engine. Look in the pan for chunks of material or the tint of antifreeze. If it's present, then your engine has sludge. If not, then it doesn't.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
