Drove through a huge puddle (lake) then van stalled out?

Hi,

It sounds like you damaged a head gasket. If you had water in one of the cylinders, it may have caused it.

Do me a favor. Take a look through this link and let me know if it mirrors what you are seeing. Also, check the engine coolant to see if it is going down.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/white-smoke-or-steam-coming-from-the-exhaust-pipe

If you can record the smoke, you are seeing and upload it for me to see, that would be helpful.

Let me know.

Joe

Yes, in that picture with the black car blowing smoke looks like my van. Also, my partner said today that there is a smell to the smoke. We will be doing the repairs ourselves so what parts do I need besides a head gasket? Hope these videos and pictures help give a bit more insight on my issue.

Hi,

If that white smoke doesn't stop, it does look like a head gasket. You have a lot of miles on this engine. Was it running good prior to this happening? I don't want to see you put time and money into it if the engine is worn.

I attached the directions for replacing the head gasket below. The first set of directions will cover the left side and the second is the right. Many of the steps in the directions are repeated, but there are differences. Also, if this engine has 300K miles, I recommend replacing the timing chain and tensioners. Additionally, you will need to purchase a gasket kit because reaching the head gaskets requires the intakes, valve covers, and so on to be removed. Note: Once the heads are reinstalled, you will need to make sure engine timing is correct.

This is a big job, so don't be overwhelmed by the directions.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.