Greetings Had the timing chain and related parts replaced on my son's 22RE. The mechanic did not remove the head, just the front cover. Now 3 months later the truck is using coolant, about a 1/2 a gallon every 2-3 weeks.

I have not checked the number 1 spark plug, but I have looked all over the engine and found no leak. No water in the oil or oil in the coolant.

From what I understand the timing chain replacement method used, not removing the cylinder head, is a hit or miss on whether the head gasket leaks or not.

A pressure test of the coolant system would be the tell all. I am just making sure that my thinking in on the right track and that I have no overlooked anything. No leaks, no smoke, no water/oil mixing. I think the leak is small and being burned in the cylinder. Sound right??
thanks

 

Do you get ANY smoking on startup?

I'd get a cooling system test kit from Sears & put it under pressure. This will tell you RIGHT AWAY where your coolant is going~ FYI: If you do this, remove ALL the spark plugs before you crank the engine; if you fill one of the cylinders with water then turn it over, you could bend a rod.