timing cover coolant leak?

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Mar 10, 2003 | 11:31 AM

Green_Monster

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From: Massachusetts, USA

timing cover coolant leak?

I am going to look at an 89 f250 4x4 ext cab with a 351m and auto tranny/8ft bed w/ 149k

The gentleman selling this informed me his mechanic told him there is a coolant leak at the timing cover. I was unaware that coolant ran thru the timing cover am I wrong?
I am thinking most likely a water pump problem. Is there a common leak problem on these motors in the front. What should I look at exactly to try and determine the source besides follow the coolant trail.

Any help or insight would be appreciated.

thanks

Mar 10, 2003 | 11:35 AM

pfogle

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From: Oak Harbor, OH

timing cover coolant leak?

is it an 82 or a 79? the 351m was phased out in late 82..... If it's an 89 its a w and the waterpump may be leaking where it mounts to the timing cover.

Mar 10, 2003 | 11:40 AM

Green_Monster

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timing cover coolant leak?

Thanks for the catch, it must be a 351w then. I will look at the mounting points on the water pump

Mar 10, 2003 | 12:16 PM

2Wise4aGM

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From: Smithton

timing cover coolant leak?

It still could be the timing cover. Coolant has to flow through the timing cover to get from the water pump to the engine block. Look at the water pump gasket(and weephole), and the timing cover gasket.

Mar 10, 2003 | 12:35 PM

pfogle

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From: Oak Harbor, OH

timing cover coolant leak?

unless it's leaking behind the timing cover you wont see it, you would notice water in the oil too as the front seal is in the timing cover.

Mar 10, 2003 | 02:01 PM

Green_Monster

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From: Massachusetts, USA

timing cover coolant leak?

Ok even if it is both how big a deal is it to change these 2? Also should i consider doing the timing gears/chain while I am there as well as the water pump?I hate doing things twice. The truck does have 149K

Mar 10, 2003 | 02:14 PM

dbrown13

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From: Central Texas

timing cover coolant leak?

unless the studs break off when loosening them. Then you have to drill/ezeout/extract them which can be time consuming. It's not a difficult job, just takes some time. Also since you're there might as well replace the timing set. Not that expensive. You might also think about a Cloyes or compatible double roller set. That type of set will last for years.

Last edited by dbrown13; Mar 10, 2003 at 02:53 PM.