1999 Ford Explorer

Tiny
UPITTMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 170,000 MILES
I recently purchased this vehicle from a private owner, who informed me that she is selling the vehicle after 11 years of ownership. She has already informed me that the vehicle overheats after driving for a short time. Upon test driving, I allowed the engine to idle for 15 minutes and drove for about 7 miles before it began to overheat (of course, I shut off the engine before the gauge completely reached the "H"). I did make these observations while the engine was running: 1. There was no smoke or excessive water coming from the exhaust. 2. The oil appeared to be normal in color and consistency (no coolant mixed with oil) 3. Engine did not skip or stall while idling or driving 4. There is coolant leaking from (seems like) the bottom front passenger side of the engine (maybe under the alternator, but it seems to only leak while driving. The previous owner also informed me that she recently replaced the radiator and that a mechanic told her she may possibly have a cracked head. Any suggestions of the cause of overheating or where to look for the leak before I replace the water pump or intake gaskets? Thanks!
Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 AT 1:24 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,916 POSTS
Hi upittman. Welcome to the forum. Rather than guessing, visit your local parts store to see if they will rent or borrow a radiator pressure tester. A lot of stores are doing that now. Pressurize the system when the engine is still warm, then look for the source of the leak.

The overheating is likely being caused by low coolant or an air pocket in the cooling system. We can talk more about that once the leak is fixed. I kind of doubt you have a cracked head, (not you, the truck!). And leaking intake gaskets are a GM thing. I really haven't heard of that being common on other brands.

Caradiodoc
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Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 AT 4:19 PM

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