1998 Dodge Caravan

[eucker2]

Having problems with antifreeze leaks. Replaced radiator and a clamp and hoses. Still leaking. Mechanic tells me that the "time cover" needs replaced??? Also recommending "water pump", is that necessary and what about "timing belt"?? This thing is nickel/diming me to death!! Thanks Eucker

[RIP]

...and which engine are we talking about?

[eucker2]

V6, believe it is the 3.8

[MagicRat]

Originally Posted by eucker2

Having problems with antifreeze leaks. Replaced radiator and a clamp and hoses. Still leaking. Mechanic tells me that the "time cover" needs replaced??? Also recommending "water pump", is that necessary and what about "timing belt"?? This thing is nickel/diming me to death!! Thanks Eucker

All those parts may produce coolant leaks. I am not completely sure about the 3.8, but in general, the 'cover' usually can be resealed with a new gasket. A new cover is not required unless it is badly corroded, warped or cracked.
Waterpumps can leak as well. Since the old one will be removed, its reasonable to change it, too.

As for the timing belt, they do need periodic replacement, every 50,000 miles, I think.

All these parts are in the same area on the engine, so some money can be saved by doing all jobs at the same time.

Finally, without inspecting the car, we cannot tell you if your mechanic's advice is correct. If in doubt, take your car to another mechanic for a second opinion.

As for the 'nickle and dimeing,', 10-11 year old vehicles do need more maintenance and repairs than new cars. That's why they are cheaper to buy.

[Bear]

There is a weep hole for the water pump and if the leak is there, then the pump needs to be replaced. Timing belt NO these engines have timing chains and to see 200,000 plus miles on the chain is not uncommon. Nickel and dimeing, hey I just had the transmission replaced on my '96 at 117,000 miles and you do not want to know the cost of that repair.

[eucker2]

Thanks for the info. Also heard that timing "chain" is not needed. Thanks. We are on transmission #2 right now............158K miles on it. Eucker