Hi everyone,

I'm looking at this 2002 dodge 2500 4x4 cummins with 106,500 miles. After a short test drive I notice a oil leak coming from what looks like the rear main seal, but I'm not 100% sure. When I look at the leak, it seems to be dripping from the front of the transmission, right behind the oil pan. I know it's not trans fluid, but I don't know if its from the oil pan or rear main. Does anyone know how much it will cost to fix? Also when I was driving the truck it wanted to go all over the road, like it had excessive play in the steering wheel, compared to my dads 2006 2500 4x4 cummins. Is there something wrong with the steering componets, or are they all like this? Any help will be appreciated, Thanks

 

They have to slide the transmission back and remove the flex plate. I believe it will run about $500, including parts. If you do it or have it done, change the front seal out on the transmission. It will be an extra 1/2 hour of labor, but it's done and be one less seal to leak for a while.

 

Mine looks like the rear main leaks but it is actually coming from the puke bottle on the front of the engine and runs back along the pan looking like an oil leak. Check that out.

The front end needs rebuilding at that mileage and will set you back about $1800 for ball joints, tie rod ends and a trac bar and labor. Use this as a bargaining chip if you are still considering buying that truck.

Kurt