Hey everyone,

I have a bit of an issue with my 2000 ram 1500 4X4 V8 5.2L. About a week ago, I started to see steam coming out of my middle two vents. It started to billow out pretty good, and later on in the day it was really close to overheating so I pulled over and changed out the anti-freeze. Ever since then, the guages seem fine and it hasn't come close to overheating.

I still get the steam though, and I'm positive its coolant that is the source of the steam because it has a definite coolant smell. The faster I drive the more the steam comes out. It's got a pretty slow leak I think, since I have to add a little bit of water after a few days or so. Does anyone have any ideas or have any experience with something like this?

Thanks for the help.

 

Yep, it's your heater core.

 

Heater core....

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen-ram-tech/114317-a-c-evaporator-replacement.html

 

Whatever you do, do NOT put any stopleak of ANY KIND in it! That crap will destroy the rest of your cooling system! At least that has been my own peersonal experience........
It's leaking, there ain't nothin' for it but to replace it yourself or have it done. Most guys say it should only take you about a 1/2 day to do. Search out forums for DIY posts. Most shops will want about 6 hrs labour.
Good luck!

 

Oh ya... forgot to mention.. if you are in a bind you can short circuit the system by patching the two lines together using a small section of 1/2" or 3/8" copper pipe and a couple of hose clamps... but you'll need to repair/replace the lines later (you'll probly want new ones anyways.....) Get ready for a chilly ride!

 

Thanks for all the help everyone. My brother is pretty good at working on cars, so we'll be doing it. Last time there was a question about replacing something around the heater core, i got quoted at 600. MUCH rather do it myself.

Thanks again.

 

600 is dirt cheap for heater core replacement. It cost me twice that to have it done.

 

dude, I've been hanging around these forums 'cuz of heat issue.... I just changed my heater core today! just sat down as a matter of fact..... Let me tell ya' it was a b&$%@ to do but well worth the $600!(took me exactly 5 hours.) scope out here for a write up re DIY! it's pretty good! helped me tremendously. The haynes manual woulda had me disconecting the A/C and completly removing the dash (though I would do that next time) It isn't that hard... just awkward and time consuming. Have fun.
ps.... I'm resigned to the fact that Dodge just doesn't pump heat like a Ford will.... I've lowered my expectaions a bit .... heat is pretty good but not great....