Thanks to the great suggestions and advice from members of CEG (In particular: Ray, Warmonger and DemonSVT), I decided to install the oil pan along with a mechanic friend of mine (without whom I would not have had access to a lift) as opposed to having the dealer perform the work. The hardest part? Getting the bolts of the y-pipe (Had to torch them in order to expand the metal a little. Is this OK?).
With respect to the dipstick and dipstick tube that one of the Ford dealers alleged that 'I had to change', well it turns out that it is not necessary:
- We noted the oil level prior to draining the pan.
- We then drained the oil (without removing the filter) into dry clean plastic containers.
- We then proceeded installing the pan and associated tasks.
- We then returned the oil from the plastic containers back into the engine.
- We then verified the oil level and noticed that about a �¼ to �½ litre of oil was missing. Taking into account the amount of oil that was leftover in the old pan and whatever was lost, we determined that the dipstick and its tube needed not to be replaced.
As a result, I returned the dipstick and dipstick tube to the dealer. Additionally, I also returned the gasket they supplied because upon opening the box that contained the oil pan, a gasket was included on the pan! A couple of more bucks saved!
However, now I've now noticed that water is leaking from where the y pipe is bolted to the cat. This only happens after I start the (cold) engine and while it remains cool. Is this normal? Did we not tighten it enough? AND now since the weather finally seems to be improving, I turned on the AC. Guess what? Only warm to coolish air and the compressor is not kicking in even when selecting DEF mode. I'm hoping it only needs some R-134a refrigerant. The car is a 1997 and have never had it refilled. I've searched the forums and have been inundated with various info on the matter.
When it rains, it indeed does pour�My wife says the gray hair I've acquired as of late, gives me that distinguished look...
Darius
1997 MTX 2.5 V6