from what i know the pin isnt really needed but I would go in there though and make sure all the bolts are torqued down cuz then tend to loosen up over the years but the pin is for alignment purposes there is so many bolts in there that it shouldnt move once torqued down.

 

wouldnt you want everything in there that it was originally designed for? As long as Im in there why not put it back together the way it was intended to be put together

why tear it apart and just ignor it? its only a dollar anyways from cummins

my 2 cents

 

this is just my opinion if the case is good you would save the money of buying the tab and pin I am just giving an option and nothing more than that

 

Question, is there a gasket behind the box where it mates to the block? Also, can the oil pan gasket be changed from bottom side without pulling motor?

Thanks Mule

 

a crap load of info right here dude, read up and enjoy

https://www.dieselbombers.com/dodge-...l-pin-fix.html

 

Great info, this still does not tell me what I was asking? Is there a gasket behind the housing that bolts to the block?

Mule

 

there is the seal for the shaft ................and as far as the cover gasket yes, I coated both sides lightly with RTV before I installed

 

Yes there is a gasket. A lot of guys just clean up up real good and use RTV. Your choice really. The crank seal should be replaced since you have the cover off. The seal goes on dry - and its a bit of a pain.

Yes, you can change the oil pan gasket without pulling the motor, but youll need to jack up the engine some to get the pan to clear the pickup. I would suggest making sure all the bolts are tight before redoing the gasket - Ive never done one but it sounds like a pain.