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I have a 98 Ranger, 4.0, auto, 4WD that failed a leak test on #4 cylinder after encountering misfires and the check engine light. It's got 101K miles and I just hate to spend the money on new heads for a truck that has given me fits since I bought it new in 98. Anything I can try that might work before I take it out back and burn it????
I do have to replace coolant every 2 to 3 months....not a lot maybe a quart or less
Maybe I should try a sealer????? and suggestions on what to use???
BTW I had to replace the intake gaskets about 7K ago
IMO, a sealer is a last-resort measure. If you are adamant about not putting any more time/money into the motor with regard to this particular issue, then I suppose you can try it. With the previous problems you mentioned, I can understand your frustration. Some people swear by the stuff, others feel that it can clog up passages and do more harm than good. The most common brand is Bar's Leak.
If you do decide to use a sealant, you ought to consider the type that comes in liquid form, which would seemingly help mix the stuff in with the coolant quicker and more efficiently. And don't just dump it into the plastic overflow tank; instead, cool the engine off, open the radiator cap and drain a little coolant, then pour the sealant into the radiator. Replace the cap and then take the truck for a nice long ride.
Thanks for the advice...my leak is so slow I wonder if it would work unless I drove with the sealer in the coolant for a month or so...and would keeping it in so long cause more harm than good...