Help Identifying Coolant Leak
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Senior User
Joined: Jan 2013
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From: Virginia
Help Identifying Coolant Leak
I have an 89 F250 with the 7.3. I just got rhe truck about 3 weeka ago and have been using it to mulch and a few days a week lately. When i got the truck it didnt leak any coolant at all. Well starting yeaterday i noticed it dripping after getting the last of 3 loads of mulch. Im no stranger to coolant leaks, but this one im not sure of. I unloaded all the mulch and that actually made it slow down a good ampunt but its still dripping.I am new to diesel but not ford trucks. The coolant is not leaking from any of the spots i can see. Its not the radiator at all, or hoses, or heater hoses. Its dripping down the pulley. I am assuming it is coming from the water pump maybe? Cant see well enough to determine where exactly its coming from.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Sep 2007
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From: Western Mass
Could also be the water pump gasket, but likely the pump is starting to leak.
If you can't find a way to see it. Feel under the water pump with your hand (engine off...) and see if its wet.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2005
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No, the bottom of the water pump has a hole in it from the factory, it's called a 'weep hole' and when your seals get worn it'll start passing coolant though this hole. That's when it's time for a new pump. Most internal combustion engine water pumps use this design.
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From: Virginia
Thanks Chevy_Eater i realized that after a little more reading. I am trying to find a mirror to use because i cant see it but the location sounds about right. It just sucks because i did a whole flush like last week with SCA's and everything. Ive done the water pump on my 76 Highboy bit there was alot more room and clearance than in the diesels.
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Senior User
Joined: Jan 2013
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From: Virginia
I am only 21 and have taught myself everything i know about trucks with hands on trial and error and mostly THIS SITE! Thanks for all the help it means alot to the people who dont have years of experience.
Clueless spectator!
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Denver, CO
It is not that big a job. Drain your radiator and pull your block plugs. You can reuse your coolant if you can catch it. Pulling the block plugs can make a mess, you might need a large catch pan or something. Pull your radiator and shroud to give yourself more room, they come out pretty easy. In my opinion, the hardest part is cleaning the gasket material off. Pay attention to how the bolts come out. The two at the top near the IP are shorter, to clear the pump gear, and are supposed to be sealed with rtv or similar product to prevent leaking. Now is also a good time to put in a new motorcraft or IH thermostat if you haven't done it already, and be sure to check your hoses while you are at it.
Good luck,
Mac.
Good luck,
Mac.
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