While driving down the highway all of a sudden it overheated and Coolant went everywhere?

Tiny
ROBERTSON1991
  • MEMBER
  • 1995 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
  • 4.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 275,000 MILES
The engine ended up losing compression. Just had my engine replaced after picking it up from the mechanic about an hour from home and it overheated, but I could restart. Reservoir is still full, no busted hose, and the drain plug is still there. Have no idea what happened.
Friday, August 19th, 2022 AT 5:46 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

I'm confused. With the new engine, coolant went everywhere, but the reservoir is still full, is that correct? Have you checked the radiator to see if it is full as well?

Also, have you been able to locate where the coolant came from? If you haven't, fill the coolant and pressure test the system. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Let me know what you find or if you have questions,

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, August 19th, 2022 AT 11:34 PM
Tiny
ROBERTSON1991
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Yes, reservoir is full, radiator is not. No signs of any visible leaks. No busted hoses.
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Saturday, August 20th, 2022 AT 7:49 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

Refill the radiator and then pressure test the cooling system. You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

I have a feeling it could be a head gasket, so make sure the coolant isn't mixing with the engine oil also.

There were two years, and for the life of me I can't remember when, but the 4.0L were having issues with the cylinder head cracking between cylinders 3 and 4. I think it was 1999 and 2000, but I can be certain and I don't know what year the new engine came from.

I attached the directions below right from the manual for testing for a head gasket leak. Take a look through them and let me know your thoughts. Also, pic 1 simply shows where a gasket can leak. It's for reference only.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Saturday, August 20th, 2022 AT 9:04 PM

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