Just Another Coolant Leak

[erikprosser]

I know the forum is full of EGR and Head Gasket discussions so not looking specifically to dig it all up. I have an appointment next week with Ford to trouble shoot my leak. I hope that with a diagnosis I can tackle the fix or shop the best labor to do so.

So my question relates to 2 parts of my leak in case it sounds familiar and can save me a bit of shop-time.

1) My coolant has been low couple of times especially after towing. Took 2 gallons this last time. But this week is the first time I have anything dripping.

Leaking is coming out by the firewall between the tranny and oil pan.

2) Leaking only happens when the engine is cold.

So the disappearing coolant when towing could be the degas cap tho I see no residue whatsoever. But the actual leak is just new and coming from far back.

Anything ring a bell with anyone whose had this leak at this area and only when cold?

[erikprosser]

Seems also that the leaking starts when the engine is cold, leaks a good puddle but then stops.

Like it's whatever amount is contained in whatever has the leak. EGR cooler? or would that keep leaking?

[97 golden stroker]

Man you need to check you oil and make sure that you dont have any coolant in the oil.

[erikprosser]

Just did an oil change a week ago an the oil was fine. Also looked at the coolant in the degas and it looks fine.

[97 golden stroker]

You should call around and see if you can get a pressure tester for the cooling system. as this will help you find the leak. and you could even find a small shop that can pressure test the system and tell you the problem. If you were in albuquerque i would help you out man but good luck.

[erikprosser]

yeah I have the TSB 06-3-8 with instructions on pressure testing. Maybe I'll see if I can get it into a small shop before I go to Ford.

I trust the guys at Diehl Ford but they will want to start fixing the problem if they diagnose. I am really hoping to attack it myself. If it's the EGR cooler I want to get rid of the sucker.

Oh and thanks for the offer to help

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Last edited by erikprosser : 10-11-2009 at 10:08 AM. Reason: forgot

[erikprosser]

So after a bunch of research I decided to use the money I would be charged for diagnosis and just replace parts myself. I've only ever done oil changes and brakes but I;

-replaced oil cooler using a kit.
-replaced the intake manifold while sending the EGR on holidays. Thanks to Adam at First Coast Diesel.
-replaced the degas bottle.

Took me 31 hours over five days since, like I say, I am no mechanic.

Two days later and no leaking whatsoever.

[Abrannan19]

Awesome Eric, happy to hear you are fixed up! Pleasure doing business with you!