Water in the engine

1996 TOYOTA TARAGO
290,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • RWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ENAJ FRANCES
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have water in the pistons. The car was blowing (billowing) white smoke, but still ran and drove smoothly for a while! The car has been off the road for a couple of months, but is worth repairing. Can you tell me how to expel the water without taking the head off?

Thanks
Feb 1, 2017 at 12:50 PM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
pull the plugs and crank engine over, but you probably have either a cracked head/block or head gasket and it will fill right up again
Feb 1, 2017 at 9:43 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,370 POSTS
If it has been sitting with water in the cylinders for a couple months you may discover that the engine is seized and that you will need to rebuild it completely.
Even if it does turn over you likely have corrosion in the cylinder(s) from the water and that will damage the rings.
At this point you would be better off to the pull the head, find the reason for the problem, assess any damage to the rest of the engine and decide from there.
Feb 1, 2017 at 11:52 PM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle