Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Coolant Leak

[Turbodiesel22]

Have a coolant leak that appears to be coming from the back of the head or block but cannot see it. I do see evidence of coolant on the bellhousing. Is this a common problem or is this a unique situation??

 

[LFJ]

If you have a 99 to 01 with a 50 block it could be common. Most of the time it is on the passinger side, behind the exhaust on the block. My friend had a 99 that hade the crack. He traded it off to the Dura Max.

 

[dslmacdown]

It maybe caused by a freeze plug, I think, I have heard of this problem before. I just don't remember the cause. Try a search for coolant leaks and cylinder head.

 

[bigdaddywoowoo]

I also have the same problem. Turns out it is a freeze plug on the rear passenger side of the head. Very small plug (approx 3/8"). I thought at first it was a blown head gasket, and was qouted a 1100. 00 fix from Scheid Diesel in Effingham Il. You can only imagine my relief when I found it to be A freeze plug instead. THEN - you can only imagine my dismay when I found, that the only way to get to this plug was to "REMOVE THE HEAD". Now I have a 1100. 00 freeze plug instead!! QUESTION? Does anyone have any other solution to repair this??

 

[dslmacdown]

I think there is a way to replace the freeze plug without removing the head.

 

[TboneMan]

I had to use a mirror to see my leak. Freeze plug!



I brought it to the dealer. They did it WITHOUT removing the head.

 

[bigdaddywoowoo]

Hey guys, THANKS!! That gives me hope. I also did the mirror thing - that's how I determined it was the plug. I will do some checking around to see what I can come up with. If you or anyone else has any ideas - I'M OPEN!! Thanks again.

 

[cArNiVaLwOrKeR]

Leak...

I can see coolant burning @ the passenger side of lower motor below the round circle... dunno whats happening yet, but im SCARED

 

[Cummins724]

Hey guys, THANKS!! That gives me hope. I also did the mirror thing - that's how I determined it was the plug. I will do some checking around to see what I can come up with. If you or anyone else has any ideas - I'M OPEN!! Thanks again.

Would it help to take the transmission/engine mount bolts loose & jack up the transmission to gain clearance. It should pivot the engine enough to give you a few inches.