So I've noticed that my coolant goes down fairly quickly, but I figured it was just a leak in an external hose or something similiar. But the other night after driving I stuck my head in the driver's side wheel well to see what was up, and I hear a hissing sound and see coolant (I'm assuming) bubbling from where the head meets the block, and running down the side of the block.



Going by the stains on the block, it looks like this has been happening for a while now. I'm surprised I didn't notice before, but I don't drive it very much. What's weird is it still runs great, the oil looked normal at last change, the heat works great, and it doesn't run hot according to my SunPro temp gauge.

So what could the problem be? Is it a blown head gasket, or could I have possibly warped the head? Or something else?

Thanks,
Rob

 

here's to hoping its not a cracked head.

Can't tell until you so some tests.

 

I just pulled my head off to replace the head gasket and the local machine shop told me the valves were fine but the surface was warped. They also told me that my water passages (which is common on these heads) had corroded past the ring part that goes around the cylinder on the head gasket. Which means that I could very easily blow the head gasket. I think that's why so many people have blown head gaskets around here. Your head is fine! Just replace the head gasket but check your water ports that are close to the head gasket rings. Take it to a machine shop too and have them go over the surface to make sure it's not warped and check the valves.

 

By test do you mean get it pressure tested?

Also, what are the two metal tubes that go around the back of the 22RE called, and where do I get replacements? They look like they also might be leaking, and since I'm going to be draining the coolant I should probably just change them. The one looks like it might be part of the EGR system.

Rob

 

So do you guys think at the least I should change my head gasket and head bolts? I have the tools and garage to do it. Anything else I should look at?

I need to get it done since this is what I drive when it starts snowing here in IL.

Rob