coolant leak front of engine
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Joined: Nov 2010
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coolant leak front of engine
ok, I have been told its a head gasket, front bank... 97 caravan, 3.3 fully loaded minivan... one morning a puddle under the van, I refilled it and drove it and realized it is running out very fast. I never let it run hot!!! was told it was a head gasket, and was told this without a pressure test. after reading some threads, I saw some stated a timing cover seal?? and if a head gasket, the front bank, how hard to replace. I am/was a diesel mechanic 14 years ago, and still have my own tools and still do my own work, but them front wheel drive minivans.... mmmmmm let me know, thanks...... was quoted $980 to replace...
All Star
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 843
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From: Toronto Canada
dont do any repairs without a pressure test, and if its coming out like you say, take off stuff so u can visually see the leak (little inspection mirrors help). Make sure its not a silly core plug or a hose, and get quoted head gaskets. have them or yourself visually see the leak
if it turns out to be the head gaskets expect a 900-1200 repair job (so you just may want to DIY) will cost u a weekend (really takin ur time), and about 100 - 150bucks parts
matter of fact i know of dealer techs that dont even take the heads off to do em they just lift the head about 1 inch and weasel the old one out and slip in a new one. So if I paid 900+ for that I'd be pissed.
I myself wouldnt trust I cleaned off all old gasket material enough, so I pull em right off, dont do just the front bank as the rear would be soon to follow.
And if you do em youself none of that aforementioned sleazy method will be used on your van
I'm thinking its childs play for someone with your experience.
Plus just ask here and u'll be backed by alot of good info that will get u thru it
if it turns out to be the head gaskets expect a 900-1200 repair job (so you just may want to DIY) will cost u a weekend (really takin ur time), and about 100 - 150bucks parts
matter of fact i know of dealer techs that dont even take the heads off to do em they just lift the head about 1 inch and weasel the old one out and slip in a new one. So if I paid 900+ for that I'd be pissed.
I myself wouldnt trust I cleaned off all old gasket material enough, so I pull em right off, dont do just the front bank as the rear would be soon to follow.
And if you do em youself none of that aforementioned sleazy method will be used on your van
I'm thinking its childs play for someone with your experience.
Plus just ask here and u'll be backed by alot of good info that will get u thru it
Last edited by hemi4spd; Dec 30, 2010 at 01:36 AM.
Champion
Joined: Jan 2010
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This is a picture of the back side of the timing cover. Either one of the orings can fail and cause a coolant leak. There is also a hose that goes from the outlet behind the water pump and runs up to the thermostat housing. that hose can leak and make it look like a head gasket also. Make sure you verify where the coolant is leaking from before wasting alot of time and money
