1988 Iron Duke with auto transmission. No AC. 91K miles.
I've got a coolant leak that I can't track down and I'm looking for some help. The car is in good shape. Low miles. Runs great. Lightly driven.
Out of the blue a few weeks ago I noticed a stain under the engine. We stopped driving and it I placed a piece of cardboard under the car. I identified both transmission fluid and coolant. I don't think there is a significance to both leaks in combination but who knows, so I include this info too. I snugged up the transmission pan bolts which seemed to help some but did not eliminate the leak. A few days ago I bought a torque wrench and torqued all the bolts to spec. I was surprised how much they needed. The leak seems to have improved so I am hopeful on this part although I am thinking a new pan gasket may be indicated.
As for the coolant leak I am stymied. Every few days I replace the cardboard and find it stained again. Mostly with coolant I think. The stain is surprisingly large. Just a few days and the stain is a foot across. And this is while the car hasn't been driven or even started for weeks. I know where it's dripping from, I just can't tell where it is originating from. From under the car I can see drops of coolant accumulated and ready to drop from the bottom of the starter. I've looked and felt all around but can't seem to locate the source. The water pump area seems dry and I can't find any moisture anywhere around or on the coolant hoses and connections. Obviously it's leaking from somewhere but I just can't find it. If any one has experienced this, or has any suggestions as to where to look I would appreciate hearing from you.
fierosound
AUG 06, 07:41 PM
If coolant is ending up and dripping from starter, it may be seeping from the thermostat housing gasket or a sensor at that end of engine.
Torque wrench on trans pan bolts often makes more problems... Nearly all Torque data is for Clean Dry bolts and holes and you torque now isn't a good plan and can strip/break the bolts or holes.
Coolant leaks on starter side Could be above... may hind under metal "heat shield" attach between E-manifold and head. Failing "freeze plugs" or iffy head gasket are possible there. If under the shield have to remove exhaust parts and 1 bolt at bottom of shield just to look. Doing that you may need new E-man as often that has cracked.
------------------ Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should. (Jurassic Park)
