1997 Dodge Intrepid Water in Gas Tank

DODGE INTREPID
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RRWATSON
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Daughters Car. Mechanic worked on engine and indicated engine/gas tank had water problems, IE. appears someone put a significant amount of water in her gas tank. Does this actually destroy the engine totally meaning it has to be replaced or rebuilt? Its a 97 Dodge Intrepid 6 cylinder I think and the key is thats its paid for and she doesnt have the money for expensive repairs. Just looking for other sensible options if any exist. Thanks :roll:
May 15, 2006 at 3:01 AM
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LOSONE
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The gas tank has to be removed and cleaned. All fuel lines blown out. Fuel filter replaced. While the tank is off replace the fuel pump as it doesn't like water. I would buy a couple of gallons of wood alcohol and use it as a last thing tank cleaner. Water and alccohol mix so it will remove any residual.

Remove the fuel rails and clean them good. The injectors can be cleaned by spraying WD-40 in the orfice. Hopefully the pressure regulator is OK. WD stands for water displacement but it is flamable and will run an engine.

Remember water in not compressable and can cause extensive engine damage under compression.

Also change the oil and all filters.

Depending on the extent of the damge it should be about 1k to 1.2K dollars. With a lot of luck a little less.

When evrything is reassembled run some gas additive that inhibits water. Good luck
May 15, 2006 at 10:29 AM

Suggested Repair

Remove and clean the fuel tank, blow out the fuel lines, clean the fuel rails and injectors, and replace the fuel filter and fuel pump. Change the oil and filters, then use a water-inhibiting fuel additive after reassembly. Water can cause serious engine damage if compressed, so repair cost and whether a rebuild is needed depend on the extent of damage.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a paid-off 1997 Dodge Intrepid asked whether water put in the gas tank would totally destroy the engine and require replacement or a rebuild. The expert said the tank, lines, rails, and injectors should be cleaned, the fuel filter and pump replaced, and the oil and filters changed. Estimated cost was about $1,000 to $1,200 if damage is limited, with a water-inhibiting additive used afterward.

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