Ranger 3.0 coolant leak

[Inspecktor]

I read Larryinnewyork's issue with his Ranger. Mine started the same hard to find leak a few months ago. I went to a GM dealer and bought the vegetable tablets they sell,($4.06 for pack) and put then in the radiator. Leak stopped after a 10 minute drive. Hope it lasts!

 

[larryinnewyork]

It's tempting to try the Tablets.

I may bite the bullet and have an Indy Mechanic tear mine apart.

Reason being:
1) If done correctly using a good quality gasket and Permatex Ultra Black, this may be a permanent fix.
I've been dealing with this for 5 years and am sick of it.
2) I can have the 'front' Seal replaced
3) Inspect the Timing Chain, Sproket and Tensioner, replace if needed.
4) Replace the original Thermostat
5) My Ranger has been well cared for and I would hate this coolant leak to develop into something worse.

Inspecktor - I think most people would try the Tablets. Good luck.

 

[Inspecktor]

This truck has already been totaled when my wife was rearended, bending the frame. It still drives good, but tire wear is faster than normal, and it looks like [censored]. If it was in better shape, I would probably have it taken apart. Good luck with yours.

 

[larryinnewyork]

Inspecktor,

If you haven't already, check your PCV Valve.
The Rubber Hose on mine was Dry-Rot.

I ordered a new one and it was redesigned.
I guess Ford knew they had a problem.

 

[Toaster_Jer]

I drive a 98' 3.0 Ranger and for the last 3 UOA reports showed signs of coolant in the oil but not enough to affect the wear rates. I have controlled it with a product called Iron Tite. Could my seepage very well be also from pvc area and or timing chain area?

 

[larryinnewyork]

The PCV has nothing to do with Coolant.
That was just friendly advise about another problem I had.

On the Ranger engine (and I'm no mechanic), the Timing Chain Cover has oil in it.
It also has (2) passages for Coolant to travel thru (to get to water Pump).

If the Gasket is leaking, it could:
1) Leak Coolant to the outside (as mine is doing)
OR
2) Leak Coolant into the oil

Coolant mixing with the Oil is a problem I want to avoid.
That is why I will be having a Mechanic replace the Gasket.

It's an expensive repair (but hopefully a one time fix).

 

[Inspecktor]

Thanks for the info. I will look at my pcv system tomorrow.