Thread: 3.9 V8i Coolant Leak

On the way back to Horsham yesterday the low coolant light started flashing. This occurred about 22 km west of Bordertown.

I had a look to see where the leak was and it was terminal. Major leak (running, not dripping) from the drivers side rear of the engine.

RACV to the rescue!




It was winched up via the bullbar, but I asked the tow truck driver to secure it via the wheels (the correct way) rather than by the chassis.



I had initially suspected a welch plug failure, or possibly head gasket, but close inspection this morning led me to believe it was the intake manifold gasket.

I pulled it apart, cleaned it all up and fitted a new gasket.
The two bolts nearest to the water passage way at the drivers side rear of the engine were only finger tight .

If you look closely you can see the discolouration around the rearmost water gallery on the head. I suspect it had been weeping for a considerable time before it failed totally.



Intake cleaned for refitting.



It is now all back together and thus far no leaks!

I am about to do an oil and filter change, then give it a test drive... to Ballarat! Got a bucks show on tonight. I already missed the golf, but I should be in time for the .

Originally Posted by BigJon

I would say the low coolant warning light saved the engine. The one in My Rangie flashes red, rather than just coming on. Very hard to ignore.

I can't understand why all car manufacturers don't fit them as standard.

I think they are often more useful than the temperature guage (which didn't budge).

I have left mine working, as it is invaluable. I agree, all manufacturers should have them.

JC