t isn't a very common problem, but it does happen occasionally. More often, it is the oil pan seal or the timing cover gasket, though. As it is a tight space, you may not know for sure where the oil is coming from until it's apart-- which isn't a big deal because many of the same parts have to come off for any of these repairs. Yes, it is easier to do these jobs with the engine out, however they can be done with the engine in the car. You will win a lot of space by removing the right front wheel to gain access to components on the lower front of the engine. Basically the process is this- disconnect battery, remove serpentine belt, remove alternator and brackets, remove idler/tensioner pulleys, drain coolant, remove front crankshaft pulley (requires a puller available at most parts stores for under $20) and that will give you access to the front seal. Once you get that far, there is a lot of room and it becomes a lot easier to see the engine. If the timing cover gasket is leaking, do all those steps plus remove the bolts holding the timing cover to the engine. Reverse procedure to assemble and it's best to change the oil anytime you open up the engine before starting. If you find the oil pan leaking, none of the above components need to be off, but you will need to remove the exhaust Y-pipe (I can walk you through this if needed, just ask) It's difficult to go step-by-step without sending pictures Good luck,
Jason
You do not need to replace the timing chain because there is no timing belt at all on Ford Taurus. It has a timing chain.
it has a timing chain
timing chain
I'm not a mechanic / technician but on a 2004 Ford Taurus if you have the 3.0 liter DOHC " Duratec " V6 engine you would because it has a timing chain going to each cylinder head
It has a timing chain that requires no maintenance.
Timing chain cover gasket
timing CHAIN
timing chain
timing CHAIN
yes you have to change the pan gasket when doing the timing chain
you replace it take the old one off and replace it with a new one
Engine seal? Valve cover gasket? Timing chain cover?