Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Intermitant coolant leak between the block and oil filter

[tmacc]

I have a intermittent coolant leak from the gasket between the filter housing and the block. How difficult is it to replace? Isn't there some kind of oil heat exchanger in there? Is it just a matter of changing some gaskets? Thanks in advance.

 

[KLockliear]

Where do you see the coolant? Dripping or puddling somewhere? There is an oil cooler inside there.

 

[tmacc]

It's leaking around the gasket where the oil filter housing bolts to the block. On the left side as you're looking at the oil filter. I noticed a small 8" stain on the concrete a week or so ago. It's not doing it now, but has done it even earlier than a week or ago. It does not appear to be the dreaded "block #53" problem. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one.

 

[CumminsPower98]

I changed gaskets on my '98 12 valve (same block). This is the oil cooler and the job isn't that hard. Just take your time and keep everything real clean. There are two gaskets. One block to oil cooler and one oil cooler to oil filter head. I think the torque is 18 ft. lbs. Tighten them slowly and evenly.

 

[bill8333]

Are you sure it's coming from the block and not the by pass hoses under the oil filter.

 

[tmacc]

Finally getting around to this and it's definitely one of the gaskets that's leaking. They're expensive little suckers. CP98, thanks for the info. I can't seem to find anything about it in the shop manual.

 

[WestTN]

I would first try just re-torqueing the bolts. Many of the gaskets on this engine are re-useable.

 

[RHestand]

CumminsPower98,

Just curious. The 98 12V has the same block as an 01 24V?

Does the 01 24V have a casting to accommodate a mechanical fuel pump.

I'm still learning, Ray

 

[CumminsPower98]

Umm I don't know much about all that but I do know that its the same or at least very similar to at least the early 24 valves. I don't know if there is a spot for the mechanical pump or not on an '01. I'm sure someone here knows much more than I do on this.