Engine Failure problems of the 1998 Dodge Durango

While driving my1998 Durango the oil pressure gauge suddenly started to go up and down . With in a minute or two total engine failure I called a mechanic he stated this was a common problem with Durangos said it would cost over 3000 to fix I have had this vehicle 1 yr and have replaced brakes ac compressor ball joints and tie rods I can not afford this kind of repairs I am a single mom and recently lost my job.

While driving down interstate on the way to work, oil pressure goes to 0 and truck stalled. Got truck towed to shop and was informed by shop that the engine had seized up. Engine failure due to oil sludge. This is the first and only problem we have ever had with this truck and now I search the internet and find hundreds of people this has happened to and that the company does not stand behind their engines and doesn't admit there is any problems. Now we have to come up with the $4,000 - $6,000 to get a new engine and still make a truck payment.

Engine failure due to oil sludge dealer maintains it is due to poor maintenance we maintain that the vehicle was properly cared for and that we are not the only ones that this has happened to.

Oil pressure on 1998 Durango kept dropping to 0. Many trips to dealer were unable to determine cause of problem. Sept '01, engine failed. Replaced engine at cost of $4500. Sludge was found in old engine. Chrysler tried to say it was because of improper oil changes. Not true. March, 2005 oil pressure is dropping to 0 again. Car is at repair facility. They say it needs a new oil sending unit. I am concerned that the engine will fail again due to the apparent defect in this particular engine Chrysler makes. What can be done? Dec. 2003 we replaced the ball joints for $1300. Find out in 2004 that Chrysler recalled 2000-2003 Durangos for defective ball joints. Why were the 1998 and 99 models left out? is this not the same part as the 2000? Chrysler merely says no more information other than 98 is not included.