Ok so for awhile my truck has been losing coolant here and there. No puddles in the garage and not in the floor board, but the occasional faint coolant smell. I am in the middle of changing fenders and replacing the core support, so I took a look behind the alternator and compressor. The front of the intake is soaked and there is a small puddle of coolant. So obviously I will be replacing the gasket and thermostat.

My other concern is, should I go ahead with replacing the water pump and timing cover gaskets? Or just go ahead an replace the water pump and timing.

And also I have evidence of oil in the intake, not puddles, but you can tell there has been an oil residue.

I don't know if I should just fix what needs it, or go all out and do it all.

 

Is this a trick question? LOL Sounds to me like you know what you should most likely do. It's up to you. DO it all and get er done or do it slowly if funds are an issue. And,btw, how many miles you got on the rig? That would also be a factor along with funds.

 

Believe it or not, only 73,000. You are right, I already knew the answer before I typed my post. Ironically, I have more fun tearing into my truck than I do driving it. LOL On the other hand I like having outside input, since my wife thinks the truck is junk. LOL! Funds aren't an issue, just time. It's been sitting for going on two weeks with no fenders or core support. SOOO, thanks for backing up the answer I already knew!

 

Also, is the Auto Zone water pump of good quality, or should I call Dodge instead?

 

You'll be fine with an AZ water pump. It's the sensors you want from he dealer. And a PCV valve.

 

I had the same water pump on mine for 180k miles before I had to replace it. I'd honestly trust the factory pump with 73k over a new Autozone pump. My timing chain gasket failed a couple of years ago at 130k. I guess age, not just miles, plays a part in gasket failure also though. I'm personally more of an if it aint broke, don't fix it kind of guy, though, other than routine maintenance and belts and hoses and such. And I do drive mine daily, so letting it sit for a long period isn't an option. More like fix what's broke tonight, drive tomorrow, and repeat.