89 4.3 Coolant Leak

[mikerae]

Some time ago, I had a slow coolant leak, of which I could not find the source, but did see some moisture in the oil. I suspected a head gasket, but in an attemp to avoid that repair, I added some leak repair to the coolant system, and the problem disapeared.

Three months later, I now have a severe coolant leak. I cannot see exactly where the leak is coming from, but it appears to be coming from the rear of the engine block, and below the manifold. I do not have any moisture in the oil.

Is there a core plug located in the back of the block ?

Thanks
Mike

[broughy84]

Yes, there is a freeze plug on the on the rear of the block. Which side is it comming from???

On my 1988 1/2 350 there is one directly above the engine oil filter, below the exhaust manifold. There is one for each cylinder. You may have to remove the exhaust manifold to access them. You can either get ones that will go in like the original (pry it out with a screw driver and drive a new one it with a socket) or you can get ones that press in and screw down tight. I prefer getting the ones that screw down tight. If you need a repair manual I have one, I can scan it and email it to you , or if you really want one, I still have one in the package and you could buy it, cheap.

[mikerae]

It appears to be coming from just above the bell housing, on the left hand side, on the rear of the engine (passenger side). I can't see exactly ...

I suspect I might have to pull the transmission, and thats more than I am set up for. I'm going to rig up some mirror tonights, and have another look. thanks for your offer of help, very much appreciated. I might just take you up on it !!

thanks
mike