Coolant leak, fan shroud removal

Hi,

I attached a picture below showing how the upper portion of the fan shroud is held on. There are two screws that attach it to the radiator and the two lower screws fasten the upper and lower shrouds together.

I have to be honest, there is no radiator cap under the shroud. All coolant is added through the reservoir. Can you explain what is happening? I may be able to give some suggestions.

Let me know.
Joe

Honestly, if it was the heater core, you would see the leak on the inside of the vehicle. Also, the aluminum repair product mentioned can lead to the heater core plugging. I don't like to use anything like that.

Take a look through this link. It explains how to pressure test the cooling system. I realize most people don't own the pressurizing equipment, but most parts stores will lend it to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

What I suggest is to pressurize the system to determine the location of the leak. Also, at the bottom of the water pump is what is called a weep hole. They will leak from there when the seal / bearing in the pump begins to fail. It isn't easy to see, but it you take a small mirror, you should be able to.

Please let me know if I can help. Also, take note if there is coolant getting on to the serpentine belt, if it is hanging on a hose, on the oil pan, and so on. If you let me know where you actually see a drip, I will have a better idea of where to tell you to look. As far as the heater core, it is in the vehicle under the dash. So, if it leaks, usually you get a puddle on the passenger side floor and a heavy fogging on the windshield that is nearly impossible to defrost. Plus, you will smell it in the vehicle.

Make sure the coolant is full and either pressure test it or allow the engine to warm up to operating temp and watch for steam under the hood or a leak.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

If it is coming from behind the fan pulley, it's the water pump. I recommend not putting anymore sealer into it. Also, I recommend flushing the radiator and engine block before reinstalling a new pump.

First, take a look through this link. The second picture shows the weep hole I am referring to. I am 99.9% sure that is where the leak is. Note that it is behind the pulley. Also, a sealant won't fix that problem. It is caused by a seal issue or the bearing is going bad.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-water-pump

Here is a link that shows in general how one is installed:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/water-pump-replacement
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If you look at pic 1, i attached an exploded view of the water pump on your vehicle. I circled the pump and highlighted where I believe the leak is coming from.

Next:

Here are directions specific to your vehicle. Pics 2 and 3 correlate with the directions.

Community 12 Create Quote
2003 Ford Truck Explorer 2WD V6-4.0L VIN E
Procedures
Vehicle Engine, Cooling and Exhaust Engine Water Pump Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
Water Pump - 4.0L SOHC

Removal and Installation
1. Drain the engine cooling system.
2. Remove the cooling fan.
3. Remove the accessory drive belt.
4. Remove the components in the order indicated.

Part 1 Of 2

pic 2

Part 2 Of 2

pic 3

5. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
6. Fill and bleed the cooling system.

Item 10: Coolant Pump Installation Note
1. Use metal surface cleaner and a suitable plastic or wooden scraper to clean the sealing surfaces.
2. Install a new coolant pump gasket.

__________________________________________

Let me know if that helps. Also, let me know if you need help or if you have any questions. I have to be honest with you. I feel you should try to flush the system. Here is a link that explains how that is done.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-flush-and-refill-all-cars

I hate the alumi - seal products because they melt down to stop the leak. As a result, it isn't uncommon for them to plug other things, specifically the heater core. I suggest you only use such products in an emergency.

Let me know how it goes for you or if you need anything.

Merry Christmas (in 15 minutes) LOL I hope you have a good one.

Joe