mjc13<REMOVETHIS> wrote:
> mjc13<REMOVETHIS> wrote:
>> Tony Hwang wrote:
>>
>>> mjc13<REMOVETHIS> wrote:
>>>
>>>> When I had the oil changed in November, I was told they had to
>>>> add "quite a bit" of coolant to the reservoir. Since the car came
>>>> from NM, with a spotty service record, I had hoped that it was
>>>> simply not topped off ever. Now, three months later, with only
>>>> moderate driving, I see the reservoir is virtually empty again. I
>>>> don't see excessive white smoke in the exhaust, or smell antifreeze
>>>> in it - although I haven't sniffed it specifically for that, yet.
>>>> The oil looks fine. I don't smell coolant inside the car, either. It
>>>> would be hard to spot a slow drip in this wet Winter weather. How
>>>> common are internal head gasket leaks in this engine, as opposed to
>>>> slow leaks in the reservoirs?
>>>
>>>
>>> Hi,
>>> First I'd replace the rad. cap and see.
>>
>>
>>
>> Good idea. I didn't realize that pressure leaks were such a common
>> problem. I may have the system pressure-tested if replacing the cap
>> doesn't work. Thanks.
>
>
> I took the car to a local shop today. They do free pressure tests (I
> gave them $20 anyway). No leaks, including the cap. Unless I'm missing
> something, it has to be the #@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
head gasket, right? Assuming it's
> going straight to the exhaust and not burning much, how safe is it to
> leave it alone? Any suggestions?
go for at least a 20 minute run, then look at the coolant reservoir
while the engine's still running. [make sure you can see in, but don't
lift the hose above the coolant surface!!!] any bubbles? if so, it's
gasket. also, check under the car and look at the bottom of the timing
belt cover. any coolant? if so, it's the pump.
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