1997 Ford Aerostar Head Gasket Replacement

JAN SPIN

MEMBER
1997 FORD AEROSTAR
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
147,000 MILES

I'm considering replacing the head gasket in my Ford Aerostar. Considering the access to the engine compartment I can't imagine that there is any way to do this without removing the engine from the vehicle. How many hours should I expect to spend on this repair? And are there any special tools I'll need or problems I should anticipate? Or should I sell the van for parts?

Thanks,
Jan

3 Replies

OBXAUTOMEDIC

MECHANIC
3,711 POSTS

Hello Again Jan,

May I ask why you are considering replacing the Head Gaskets.

What problems are you having with the vehicle?

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Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 AT 8:23 AM

JAN SPIN

MEMBER
6 POSTS

The coolant leaks. I can't drive more than 2 miles without having overheating issues. I'm afraid this will kill the engine if I let it go too long.

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Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 AT 8:42 AM

OBXAUTOMEDIC

MECHANIC
3,711 POSTS

Are you able to get a rough idea of were the leak is? And I gather it is a pretty big leak if you can only go a couple miles.

Ex: front of motor, right side, left side, rear.

Possible causes other than the head gasket are: Water Pump, hoses, freeze plugs.

Also how old are the hoses?

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Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 AT 8:55 AM