External coolant leak in twin-spark

cliffordh · #1 (**permalink**) 06-30-2009, 05:16 PM

I have a TS engine in my 105 series 1750, and it has always (six years) used a bit of coolant due to seepage from the HG under the induction side - very hard to see while everything is installed, but I recently took off the AFM etc. It's seeping all along the length of the HG from just under the overhang on the induction side. No single spots, just the whole side of the engine is covered in dried-out deposits. I would add perhaps 2L of water/coolant each service interval, so it's not a radical leak, but it's been consistently there for years. No other apparent problems over that time.

I was told that this is a common problem with these engines when they're cold (this car gets quite a few shortish trips). Is that the case? Should I care, or just keep topping it up?

Craig · #2 (**permalink**) 07-01-2009, 01:53 PM

G'Day Clifford,

Quote:

Originally Posted by cliffordh

I was told that this is a common problem with these engines when they're cold

cliffordh · #3 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009, 10:59 PM

Craig,

Mind giving me an opinion where the leak is from? You're more familiar with these engines than I am. The picture is taken from just beside the distributor, looking in and up under the induction side.

Thanks!

Craig · #4 (**permalink**) 07-03-2009, 03:11 AM

It does look like the head gasket, but reach in and clean it with a scrubbing brush until it shines then check again after a drive.

caveat: I'm currently stuck using an old laptop with a lousy screen so I can't see much in the pic

cliffordh · #5 (**permalink**) 07-03-2009, 04:38 AM

Unfortunately I can't take it for a drive - the problem was exposed during disassembly after rear-end accident damage - someone drove into me while I was stationary last Dec. I have a repairer lined up for Sep, and have to find some panels by then, and hopefully get the car running again by Xmas. With a new HG, apparently :-( Think I'll continue and pull this engine so it can get done while the car's at the PB.

Craig · #6 (**permalink**) 07-03-2009, 02:32 PM

Morning Clifford,

Ok, real computer (been fighting trojans, no wonder the Greeks cheated), real software, can't see anything above head gasket so that's the culprit.

And add a pic or two to the Injured Alfa page.