2002 Dodge Dakota Blown Head Gasket

CSHUMWAY

MEMBER
2002 DODGE DAKOTA
6 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
128,000 MILES

Hi I have an 02 dodge Dakota. The truck was over heating so I replaced the thermostat and the water pump. It is still over heating but without a leak. I know the pump is working because I can see the water returning to the radiator. I talked to a mechanic to see what it could be and he said it was more then likely a blown head gasket. The truck is blowing water out from and unknown sorce when the truck has been drivien. It sounds right. I wanted to know If one, the sealent stuff avretised would work or 2, if I should replace the gasket. I dont think I cracked the head b/c the car is not running loud. If I do have to replace the gasket would it be possible to do it myself. Would I need and engine lift?

6 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Before you deterine if it is a head gasket, check engine compression to determine if it has low compression in one or more cylenders. The 3.9L V6 is a good engine (hard on gas) but a good engine that doesn't have too much of a problem with head gaskets. Have you tried flushing the cooling system (radiator and engine block)?

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Friday, June 5th, 2009 AT 12:05 PM

CSHUMWAY

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Come to find out it was a loose hose. It was tight when cool but once it started to heat up, the hose got lose and begain to leak. Thank you so much for your help. I have another question. I have a 96 saturn 4 door 136000 miles 4 cyl. I am using about a quart of oil every 4 days. I am not burning it because I dont see any smoke and I dont smell anything. But I also dont see any oil under my car nor do I see it in my coolant. What is happening to my oil?

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Friday, June 5th, 2009 AT 2:21 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

That is a good one. No leaks? Is it getting sucked into the air filter housing? How many miles do you drive in 4 days?

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Friday, June 5th, 2009 AT 11:16 PM

CSHUMWAY

MEMBER
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Well I would say about 150 miles give or take. It could be the air filter. The car has NO power and its a manual. I will have a look at it.

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Monday, June 8th, 2009 AT 7:51 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

That is really bad. Have you checked engine compression? I wonder if it's burning the oil and you're not seeing it. Also, because of the lack of power, have you checked the catylatic converter to see if it is plugged? Something tells me there may be a problem there as a result of the oil consumption and lack of power.