Engine Coolant Leak, Loss of Coolant (Replace Affected Cylinder Head Gasket)

Some customers may comment on a coolant leak. The comments may range from spots on the driveway to having to add more coolant.

Upon inspection, the technician may find that there is a external coolant leak coming from the top end of either cylinder head.

Follow the appropriate diagnostic information in SI. If a leak is found to be coming from a cylinder head gasket, the gasket must be replaced. When replacing the gasket be advised that larger flange hex head bolts are now to be used at locations 5 and 8. The larger flange hex bolts are the same as the ones used at the other six locations. When installing the two large flange hex head bolts at locations 5 and 8 a new style lower intake manifold gasket that has provisions to allow for the larger flange bolts must be used. These new lower intake manifold gaskets are contained in the gasket kits listed below.

Caution: Failure to use the new lower intake manifold gaskets when installing the larger flange hex head bolts at locations 5 and 8 may result in the lower intake manifold not fitting properly, which may result in a leak condition.

Important: Lower intake manifold gaskets contained in older gasket kits will not have the provisions needed when installing the larger flange bolts.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use