I've got a slight coolant leak near the timing cover on a 2000 5.9 magnum with 100k miles on it. While I'm in there, gonna replace the water pump and timing gear/chain.
The timing cover gasket set says I must use an oil pan gasket with it. Do I have to drop the oil pan too?

I didnt when I changed my timing chain on my 2k. They probably want you to do it because you disturb the gasket when removing the cover. I just removed the front 2 bolts on each side of the oil pan.

i know on the older style 360s, a timing cover gasket set would come with oil pan gasket ends that you can replace. I don't think I used them though.

Edit - It was actually a cam change gasket kit that I bought that it came with. Check out a parts stores website they might have a picture of what it comes with.

Picture sure didn't look like an oil pan gasket change would be required. Thanks folks.

no need to..unless it no good when you remove cover

should be the one piece oil pan gasket on a magnum engine IIRC

on the older one with a well worn gasket I have used the cork ends before,got to back the bolts off enuff to slide cork under the edge of block for the ends to work right

if the front seal part of the gaskets wants to roll out of position when going back together,IMO I would cahnge the whole gasket

but the last 5-6 I have put t-chians in I did not,just r7r t-cover and done

I would replace the bypass hose and check the riser tube on the t-stat,they like to rust away,check heater hose while your in there

6-7 bolts will pull the alum bracket that has the a/c and alt as a unit,swing it out of the way to help make room to work

good luck