as the title states I changed the oil pan and timing cover gaskets. all of this sparked by my infinite chase to end the oil leaks. the front main was leaking and also the timing cover itself had been leaking in various places.

not a fun time. but its done now. I'm not real comfortable with how the rear U portion of the pan gasket laid in there, but time will tell if it's in properly.

I did not remove the pan. I lowered it as much as possible and just changed the gasket. fishing said gasket around the pickup tube was fun. I jacked up the jeep and supported the body w stands, letting the axle hang. I then removed 1 starter bolt and loosened the other. this let the pan fall down and rest on the axle. by doing this I was able to clean both mating surfaces sufficiently.

I removed the clutch fan, shroud and belt just for extra work space up front. worked well as I had no issues w the cover. balancer came off and went back on very smoothly.

 

Here's hoping for a leak-free engine for you!