what is all the causes for a engine to over heat?

1999 NISSAN MAXIMA
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JOE1953
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i have to add cooling to my radiator,when i run the engine for about 30 minutes water is in the tail pipe, and the tempture gauge go up to hot.
Aug 4, 2012 at 5:56 AM
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CARADIODOC
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Suspect a leaking cylinder head gasket. You can verify that by adding a small bottle of dark purple dye, then check at the tail pipe with a black light. If the head gasket is leaking the dye will show up as a bright yellow stain.
Aug 4, 2012 at 6:00 AM
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JOE1953
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do i add the small bottle of dark purple dye to the radiator.
Aug 4, 2012 at 6:19 AM
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CARADIODOC
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Yes, when the engine is still cold. You can buy the dye at auto parts stores. They will ask you what you're going to be adding it to and they'll give you the right product.
Aug 4, 2012 at 6:31 AM
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