Technical Tips At Canada Engines: we remanufacture and install automotive and truck engines - and we are happy to share our knowledge with the Public about some common problems associated with certain Ford and Chevy engines.

The 4.0L Ford V6 has been a problem engine for oil leaks for years.

This engine in used in the Aerostar, Explorer and Ranger pick-ups.

The most common leak is often diagnosed as a rear seal leak, but in almost every case we've seen, the problem is later found to be the rear of the oil pan gasket. Since 1990, when the 4.0L was first introduced, Ford redesigned the gasket twice and even the oil pan casting to eliminate the leaking issue.

We've come up with a few installation tips for our customers, to prevent this costly and aggravating oil pan gasket leak.

The '90 to '93 gasket set will include a plastic wedge seal that goes into a groove in the main cap. This diagram explains the steps to take for a successful installation.

The pictures below give a closer look at the main cap and the corner cavities. For any questions about these tips just give us a call.

The 1990 to 1993 model years use gasket

Note: Click on the images to see the details pages

Step 4 - measuring oil pan clearance

Make certain you also follow these two steps to ensure a good seal:

Step 1: Spray with "Brake Cleaner" and blow or wipe entire gasket surface completely dry.

Many Chevrolet/ Chevy Vortec engines have a non-reuseable, plastic timing chain cover.

Here are some images to show you how to identify what part you have and must replace on your rebuilt or remanufactured engine:

Chevrolet Vortec timing chain cover A

Chevrolet Vortec timing chain cover B

Note: Click on the images to see the detail pages...

For any questions about these tips just give us a call.

Please Note:

If your timing cover has a crank position sensor in it, you will also need to remove the reactor ring, as shown on right, and reuse it on the replacement engine.

Note: Click on the image to see the details page...