Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Coolant leak only when block heater is on

[FordCummins]

Ive got a coolant leak that occurs only when the block heater is plugged in. Its a very small leak, with only a tiny puddle on the ground when left plugged in for 4hrs or more, but it only occurs when the block heater is on. I cant really determine where its coming from, just wondering if anyone had any input. Thanks.

 

[tp0d]

Could be thermal expansion pushing coolant out a tiny leak somewhere... Does it leak from the heater itself or from somewhere else on the block? If its on the heater itself, you prolly need a new seal for the heater, if its somewhere else, check your t-stat to be sure it isnt locking down coolant flow. I dunno if the t-stat can hold back pressure... but its possible you could get 30+ psi built up by taking the block coolant from ~30degrees to around 100... Water expands by 3% volume for every 100degrees you heat it.



good luck



-j

 

[Dfuruness]

Check all your hoses, especially the small ones which are out of sight and out of mind. I had the same problem, checked and found a small hose with a loose clamp.



Have a good one.

 

[Howard Durand]

Check the weep hole in the water pump too.

 

[FordCummins]

Thanks guys, once the weather warms up a little bit, Ill poke around and see what I can find. Thanks again.

 

[DBogo]

do you hav ethe stock ford radiator? if so check the really small line on the bottom drivers side i had the same problem and it happened to be that clamp was loose

 

[FordCummins]

Yep, I got the Ford radiator, Ill take a look at that.

 

[Jesselee]

i get a leak on mine two but it seams more towards the back of the engine only wen the block heater is pluged in. ill have to check some hoses again but that is a p. i. t. a. :{