Front Engine Cover Leak 97 3.8L

[Augdog74]

I had a slow coolant leak in my Windstar and it finally starting losing more coolant. I took it to the mechanic and he thinks it is leaking out of the front engine cover. He tells me it will be a $50 gasket and a 10 hour process to repair this. Has anyone else had this done? Just wondering what it costed.

[bobinkski]

Augdog74,I had the gasket changed,and it cost @ $50 for the gasket and 10 hours at $70 an hour!The job cost me around $800.The front cover is the timing chain cover.If you get coolant inside your engine that is bad.The engine will have to be lifted up 3-4 inches so the water pump and cover can be pulled off.Yes big job,do it your self? Good Luck.

[Augdog74]

Thanks for confirming this. You are right, it is the timing chain cover. I live in a small town and it looks like I might be able to get a guy to do it for 30-$35 an hour. I wish I could do it myself but I don't have the time or equipment. Thanks for the help!