Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
need help on next action from the group...

1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
confirm it though;

- Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
since the change.
- Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
- Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?

The other issue....

2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.

Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
posts that suggest they may be.

Any thoughts or ideas?

Thanks,

Tom

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Hi Tom,
Some leaks may be so slight, that you may not be able to see the
vapor, leaving. Look from underneath up at the water pump shaft, at the
weep hole to see if there are any telltale stains. And to put your mind
at ease, find a radiator shop, and they'll be able to test for exhaust
gases.
God Bless America, Bill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

TJ wrote:
>
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Hi Tom,
Some leaks may be so slight, that you may not be able to see the
vapor, leaving. Look from underneath up at the water pump shaft, at the
weep hole to see if there are any telltale stains. And to put your mind
at ease, find a radiator shop, and they'll be able to test for exhaust
gases.
God Bless America, Bill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

TJ wrote:
>
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Hi Tom,
Some leaks may be so slight, that you may not be able to see the
vapor, leaving. Look from underneath up at the water pump shaft, at the
weep hole to see if there are any telltale stains. And to put your mind
at ease, find a radiator shop, and they'll be able to test for exhaust
gases.
God Bless America, Bill O|||||||O
mailto:-------------------- http://www.----------.com/

TJ wrote:
>
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

The coolant loss is serious, and if there are no puddles under the vehicle
then you have a blown head gasket or similar problem. You can buy a spark
plug to air compressor adapter, pressurize your cylinders, and watch for
bubbles in the coolant. You can check for a sweetish smell at the exhaust.
If you pressure test the cooling system, this won't necessarily find your
head gasket problem, but it will eliminate the possibility of an external
leak.

Oil pressure drop at idle is expected, but not enough to trigger the check
engine light. You can rent or buy a mechanical pressure gauge to verify
that your dash gauge is or is not the problem. If the gauge is accurate
then you have a mechanical problem, such as a worn oil pump, bad bearings or
stuck pressure relief valve.

Good luck.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166115400.816991.237550@16g2000cwy.googlegro ups.com...
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

The coolant loss is serious, and if there are no puddles under the vehicle
then you have a blown head gasket or similar problem. You can buy a spark
plug to air compressor adapter, pressurize your cylinders, and watch for
bubbles in the coolant. You can check for a sweetish smell at the exhaust.
If you pressure test the cooling system, this won't necessarily find your
head gasket problem, but it will eliminate the possibility of an external
leak.

Oil pressure drop at idle is expected, but not enough to trigger the check
engine light. You can rent or buy a mechanical pressure gauge to verify
that your dash gauge is or is not the problem. If the gauge is accurate
then you have a mechanical problem, such as a worn oil pump, bad bearings or
stuck pressure relief valve.

Good luck.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166115400.816991.237550@16g2000cwy.googlegro ups.com...
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

The coolant loss is serious, and if there are no puddles under the vehicle
then you have a blown head gasket or similar problem. You can buy a spark
plug to air compressor adapter, pressurize your cylinders, and watch for
bubbles in the coolant. You can check for a sweetish smell at the exhaust.
If you pressure test the cooling system, this won't necessarily find your
head gasket problem, but it will eliminate the possibility of an external
leak.

Oil pressure drop at idle is expected, but not enough to trigger the check
engine light. You can rent or buy a mechanical pressure gauge to verify
that your dash gauge is or is not the problem. If the gauge is accurate
then you have a mechanical problem, such as a worn oil pump, bad bearings or
stuck pressure relief valve.

Good luck.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166115400.816991.237550@16g2000cwy.googlegro ups.com...
> On a 2000 TJ lately I have been stumped with a couple of issues and
> need help on next action from the group...
>
> 1. I bought the TJ in September and it was overheating so I changed the
> t-stat. Ever since then it has been using about a gallon of 50/50
> coolant a month. However there are no external leaks that I can see or
> smell. When I changed the coolant and did the t-stat, I noticed some
> white crud around the cap and the filler but none has reappeared since
> then. Everything I have read points to a head gasket but nothing to
> confirm it though;
>
> - Oil cap is clean, and oil level is around normal after over 500 miles
> since the change.
> - Haven't pressured tested the system, will this tell all?
> - Changed the plugs around the same time as the t-stat but they looked
> normal or just worn, check these again for a clean plug?
>
> The other issue....
>
> 2. After the Jeep is warmed up, typically from highway travel the
> pressure gauge at idle with drop and the check gauges light comes on. I
> have replaced the sending unit with a new one from the dealer (Mopar)
> and changed the oil and filter (10W30) and it still happens.
>
> Don't know if the two issues are related although have seen some other
> posts that suggest they may be.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Tom
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
a 4.0 engine.

The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
pressure guage and comparing the readings.

If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
a 4.0 engine.

The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
pressure guage and comparing the readings.

If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
a 4.0 engine.

The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
pressure guage and comparing the readings.

If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Outatime wrote:

> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage.

Something just dawned on me. If you do a key-on check of the dash
guages (key off...press and hold odometer button, key on, release
button), the OBD-II system will first flash codes on the odometer
readout, then systematically test each guage as you watch. Pay
attention to the oil pressure guage; if it isn't working right, you will
probably be able to tell right off this way.

That is...if the 2000's are anything like my 2005 TJL. I'm pretty sure
they use the same test procedure.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Outatime wrote:

> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage.

Something just dawned on me. If you do a key-on check of the dash
guages (key off...press and hold odometer button, key on, release
button), the OBD-II system will first flash codes on the odometer
readout, then systematically test each guage as you watch. Pay
attention to the oil pressure guage; if it isn't working right, you will
probably be able to tell right off this way.

That is...if the 2000's are anything like my 2005 TJL. I'm pretty sure
they use the same test procedure.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Outatime wrote:

> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage.

Something just dawned on me. If you do a key-on check of the dash
guages (key off...press and hold odometer button, key on, release
button), the OBD-II system will first flash codes on the odometer
readout, then systematically test each guage as you watch. Pay
attention to the oil pressure guage; if it isn't working right, you will
probably be able to tell right off this way.

That is...if the 2000's are anything like my 2005 TJL. I'm pretty sure
they use the same test procedure.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?

H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+

If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
the Suburban.

Cheers,

Earle

"Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> a 4.0 engine.
>
> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> pressure guage and comparing the readings.
>
> If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?

H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+

If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
the Suburban.

Cheers,

Earle

"Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> a 4.0 engine.
>
> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> pressure guage and comparing the readings.
>
> If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?

H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+

If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
the Suburban.

Cheers,

Earle

"Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> a 4.0 engine.
>
> The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> pressure guage and comparing the readings.
>
> If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Appreciate all the posts, well group here are some results:

The pressure test indicated a very very slow drop in pressure but
didn't reveal any external leak source, so it's definately internal

All the plugs look fine and identical in wear

The exhaust seems ok as well and is not abnormal white or smelly

The sparkplug compression test is a good idea but I am less an air
compressor

Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
luck with there product in the past....

Tom




Earle Horton wrote:
> My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?
>
> H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+
>
> If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
> I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
> the Suburban.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Earle
>
> "Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
> news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> > I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> > very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> > seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> > of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> > leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> > followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> > where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> > the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> > a 4.0 engine.
> >
> > The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> > expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> > first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> > pressure guage and comparing the readings.
> >
> > If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> > fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> > with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> > the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Appreciate all the posts, well group here are some results:

The pressure test indicated a very very slow drop in pressure but
didn't reveal any external leak source, so it's definately internal

All the plugs look fine and identical in wear

The exhaust seems ok as well and is not abnormal white or smelly

The sparkplug compression test is a good idea but I am less an air
compressor

Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
luck with there product in the past....

Tom




Earle Horton wrote:
> My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?
>
> H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+
>
> If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
> I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
> the Suburban.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Earle
>
> "Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
> news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> > I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> > very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> > seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> > of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> > leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> > followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> > where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> > the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> > a 4.0 engine.
> >
> > The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> > expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> > first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> > pressure guage and comparing the readings.
> >
> > If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> > fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> > with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> > the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Appreciate all the posts, well group here are some results:

The pressure test indicated a very very slow drop in pressure but
didn't reveal any external leak source, so it's definately internal

All the plugs look fine and identical in wear

The exhaust seems ok as well and is not abnormal white or smelly

The sparkplug compression test is a good idea but I am less an air
compressor

Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
luck with there product in the past....

Tom




Earle Horton wrote:
> My Chemistry is a little rusty, but doesn't this happen too?
>
> H2O + CO2 <-> HCO3- + H+
>
> If you're bubbling CO2 through your coolant, that's not so good then. Btw,
> I put some Zerex G-05 in the Jeep. I'm still thinking about what to put in
> the Suburban.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Earle
>
> "Outatime" <user@example.net> wrote in message
> news:KfCdnSq5JKWylh_YnZ2dnUVZ_rylnZ2d@softcom.net. ..
> > I agree with Earl. The coolant issue is serious; on gallon per month is
> > very serious. It's going somewhere, and you must find out where. I've
> > seen test strips that when dipped in the coolant, indicate the presense
> > of hydrocarbons, a telltale sign of a blown head gasket. Doing a
> > leakdown test will usually pinpoint this as well; a drop in pressure
> > followed by a visual examination into each spark plug hole will tell you
> > where the head gasket has been breached. Either way, you should repair
> > the problem or have a mechanic do the work for you. This is unusual for
> > a 4.0 engine.
> >
> > The 'check guages' lamp usually indicates a faulty dash guage. They are
> > expensive to replace, but I would do it regardless of cost. You can
> > first check for proper oil pressure by hooking up a mechanical oil
> > pressure guage and comparing the readings.
> >
> > If this were me, I'd just find a very good mechanic and have everything
> > fixed all at once. You're probably looking at 5-$700 for everything,
> > with most being labor. You bought a very good quality truck: it's worth
> > the bucks to have it fixed right.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

> Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
hydrocarbons.

> I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> luck with there product in the past....

This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

> Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
hydrocarbons.

> I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> luck with there product in the past....

This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

> Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?

These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
hydrocarbons.

> I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> luck with there product in the past....

This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.

If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
about every car manufacturer uses them.

Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
replacement that would be needed anyway.

Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
calculated risk on a crummy radiator.

Tom


Outatime wrote:
> > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
>
> These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> hydrocarbons.
>
> > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> > luck with there product in the past....
>
> This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.

If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
about every car manufacturer uses them.

Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
replacement that would be needed anyway.

Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
calculated risk on a crummy radiator.

Tom


Outatime wrote:
> > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
>
> These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> hydrocarbons.
>
> > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> > luck with there product in the past....
>
> This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.

If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
about every car manufacturer uses them.

Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
replacement that would be needed anyway.

Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
calculated risk on a crummy radiator.

Tom


Outatime wrote:
> > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
>
> These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> hydrocarbons.
>
> > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had good
> > luck with there product in the past....
>
> This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> radiator if it was marginal to begin with.

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:
> If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> jam your thermostat open or closed.
>
> If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> 99.99% surely a head gasket.

One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
has the tool on free rental.

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:
> If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> jam your thermostat open or closed.
>
> If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> 99.99% surely a head gasket.

One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
has the tool on free rental.

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:
> If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> jam your thermostat open or closed.
>
> If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> 99.99% surely a head gasket.

One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
has the tool on free rental.

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running when you
pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or jam your
thermostat open or closed.

If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be 99.99%
surely a head gasket.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166163076.059319.315190@n67g2000cwd.googlegr oups.com...
> I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
> not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
> plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
> for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.
>
> If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
> lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
> about every car manufacturer uses them.
>
> Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
> small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
> replacement that would be needed anyway.
>
> Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
> calculated risk on a crummy radiator.
>
> Tom
>
>
> Outatime wrote:
> > > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
> >
> > These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> > to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> > hydrocarbons.
> >
> > > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had
good
> > > luck with there product in the past....
> >
> > This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> > Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> > bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> > radiator if it was marginal to begin with.
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running when you
pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or jam your
thermostat open or closed.

If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be 99.99%
surely a head gasket.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166163076.059319.315190@n67g2000cwd.googlegr oups.com...
> I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
> not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
> plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
> for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.
>
> If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
> lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
> about every car manufacturer uses them.
>
> Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
> small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
> replacement that would be needed anyway.
>
> Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
> calculated risk on a crummy radiator.
>
> Tom
>
>
> Outatime wrote:
> > > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
> >
> > These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> > to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> > hydrocarbons.
> >
> > > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had
good
> > > luck with there product in the past....
> >
> > This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> > Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> > bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> > radiator if it was marginal to begin with.
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running when you
pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or jam your
thermostat open or closed.

If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be 99.99%
surely a head gasket.

Earle

"tk" <thomas_kessler@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:1166163076.059319.315190@n67g2000cwd.googlegr oups.com...
> I guess I am not convinced that it is the head gasket since there is
> not anything to confirm this. The engine and trans oil are OK, the
> plugs are OK hence nothing to indicate a blown gasket yet. The checking
> for gases would confim a possible head gasket replacement.
>
> If the pressure test holds with the stop leak then it a fix, maybe it
> lasts for 5 years or 5 days. Additives and stop leaks do work, just
> about every car manufacturer uses them.
>
> Yes I agree if you have a corroded radiator this may bridge already
> small corroded passages within the radiator or accelarate the
> replacement that would be needed anyway.
>
> Looking at $700-1000 for a head gasket makes dropping 3 bucks a
> calculated risk on a crummy radiator.
>
> Tom
>
>
> Outatime wrote:
> > > Where do you find the coolant strips to test for gases?
> >
> > These are rarely sold to the public; best solution is to drive on over
> > to a local radiator shop and ask them to test for the presense of
> > hydrocarbons.
> >
> > > I am going to run a bottle of Bar's Leak in and then recheck the
> > > pressure, hopefully that will seal up whatever it is as I have had
good
> > > luck with there product in the past....
> >
> > This is a band-aid on an amputated limb. Radiator salesman love Bar's
> > Stop Leak. You can try it, but then be prepared to shell out the big
> > bucks for gasket replacement anyway. Then be prepared to replace the
> > radiator if it was marginal to begin with.
>

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

"DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> Earle Horton wrote:
> > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> >
> > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
>
> One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

>
> The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> has the tool on free rental.
>
A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

Earle

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

"DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> Earle Horton wrote:
> > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> >
> > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
>
> One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

>
> The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> has the tool on free rental.
>
A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

Earle

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

"DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> Earle Horton wrote:
> > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> >
> > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
>
> One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.

One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

>
> The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> has the tool on free rental.
>
A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

Earle

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:

> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

Yea.. not only do they crack but they make the darn things out of a plasic
that can't be thermally welded or epoxied. :( I've had some luck with
sheet aluminum and rtv/screws.


> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle,
> as they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

It will if you use the stopper head from the kit and test the bottle. :)

Guess you could have a new one made.
http://fluids.flambeau.com/

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:

> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

Yea.. not only do they crack but they make the darn things out of a plasic
that can't be thermally welded or epoxied. :( I've had some luck with
sheet aluminum and rtv/screws.


> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle,
> as they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

It will if you use the stopper head from the kit and test the bottle. :)

Guess you could have a new one made.
http://fluids.flambeau.com/

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Earle Horton wrote:

> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".

Yea.. not only do they crack but they make the darn things out of a plasic
that can't be thermally welded or epoxied. :( I've had some luck with
sheet aluminum and rtv/screws.


> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle,
> as they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.

It will if you use the stopper head from the kit and test the bottle. :)

Guess you could have a new one made.
http://fluids.flambeau.com/

--
DougW

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Checked the overflow bottle and it is fine too. Again did the Autozone
pressure test and there is slow dropping pressure but no external leak.


Stop leak is in after running it for about an hour last night. I
pressure tested it againg this morning cold and the pressure drop is
still there. How long does it take stop leak to work?

Well if it's the head gasket then where is the coolant going then?

Trans and Engine oil are not contaminated with coolant
Spark plugs all look okay

It's got me perplexed and at my wit's end so I am taking it to the
dealer on Tuesday, Park Jeep here in Burnsville to have them continue
diagnosing this and the oil pressure gauge too...

Thanks,

Tom

Earle Horton wrote:
> "DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
> news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> > Earle Horton wrote:
> > > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> > >
> > > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
> >
> > One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> > springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> > air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> > boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.
>
> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".
>
> >
> > The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> > has the tool on free rental.
> >
> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
> they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.
>
> Earle

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Checked the overflow bottle and it is fine too. Again did the Autozone
pressure test and there is slow dropping pressure but no external leak.


Stop leak is in after running it for about an hour last night. I
pressure tested it againg this morning cold and the pressure drop is
still there. How long does it take stop leak to work?

Well if it's the head gasket then where is the coolant going then?

Trans and Engine oil are not contaminated with coolant
Spark plugs all look okay

It's got me perplexed and at my wit's end so I am taking it to the
dealer on Tuesday, Park Jeep here in Burnsville to have them continue
diagnosing this and the oil pressure gauge too...

Thanks,

Tom

Earle Horton wrote:
> "DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
> news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> > Earle Horton wrote:
> > > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> > >
> > > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
> >
> > One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> > springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> > air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> > boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.
>
> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".
>
> >
> > The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> > has the tool on free rental.
> >
> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
> they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.
>
> Earle

Re: Losing Coolant and dropping oil pressure gauge
 

Checked the overflow bottle and it is fine too. Again did the Autozone
pressure test and there is slow dropping pressure but no external leak.


Stop leak is in after running it for about an hour last night. I
pressure tested it againg this morning cold and the pressure drop is
still there. How long does it take stop leak to work?

Well if it's the head gasket then where is the coolant going then?

Trans and Engine oil are not contaminated with coolant
Spark plugs all look okay

It's got me perplexed and at my wit's end so I am taking it to the
dealer on Tuesday, Park Jeep here in Burnsville to have them continue
diagnosing this and the oil pressure gauge too...

Thanks,

Tom

Earle Horton wrote:
> "DougW" <post.replies@invalid.address> wrote in message
> news:PZAgh.17155$Rj.17001@newsfe19.lga...
> > Earle Horton wrote:
> > > If you have to use this stuff make sure that the engine is running
> > > when you pour it in slowly, or you could lock up your water pump or
> > > jam your thermostat open or closed.
> > >
> > > If it is not dripping on the ground, then a gallon a month has to be
> > > 99.99% surely a head gasket.
> >
> > One thing not mentioned is the overflow bottle. If that sucker
> > springs a leak it will drain coolant as you drive then suck
> > air back into the radiator. As the radiator builds with air the
> > boiling point goes down and then what goes out is mostly steam.
>
> One thing that I like about overflow bottles, is that they are made out of
> that kind of plastic that is going to dry out and crack after, say, fifteen
> years. Then it will be a special order part or no longer available, and of
> course shaped so that nothing but the exact replacement is going to fit.
> You might have something here, which is why I said "99.99% sure".
>
> >
> > The best thing to do is a pressure test. Simple, cheap, and Autozone
> > has the tool on free rental.
> >
> A pressure tester won't find anything wrong with the overflow bottle, as
> they are open to the air, so that should get a thorough inspection.
>
> Earle