Water leak in back of engine

Tiny
NASER NASER
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  • 2011 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 170,000 MILES
I can't really see it but after putting in about 1 gallon of water in radiator I see it seeping around transmission. Are there common leaks on these cars from back of engine or under intake?
Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 5:40 PM

12 Replies

Tiny
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Hi,

It isn't a common problem. Is it the 3.6L V6? As far as leaks, have you checked around heater hoses?

Here is what I suggest: You should pressure test cooling system and use a mirror to see behind the engine and check for leaks.

Here is a link that shows how to pressure test the system. You will need a pressure tester, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

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

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 6:33 PM
Tiny
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3.6l. Yes, have not yet checked heater hoses as I have to tow it. I guess, does not hold water long enough for me to do a pressure test, runs out quickly.
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 6:49 PM
Tiny
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Naser,

I was thinking. If it isn't a hose, check to see if it is coming from under the intake. No coolant runs through the intake manifold, but the oil cooler (which is part of the oil filter housing) can also leak coolant. I attached a pic of what I'm referring to (pic 1). Number 3 in the pic is a heater hose attached to the assembly. I bet that is where it is leaking. The plastic will crack and leak coolant. Here is the part number.

MOPAR 5184294AE

Let me know. And yes, you have to remove the intake manifold. Recommend to the customer that they also replace the oil pressure and oil temp sensors. They commonly go bad and will then leak oil and set codes. The next thing will be oil leaking down on the bell housing. LOL (see pic 2)

Tomorrow is Labor Day. You shouldn't be working. LOL I hope the weather there is good and you aren't being hit by any hurricanes.

Take care and let me know what you find. By the way, I have a 13 Durango sitting in my driveway. Basically it's the same vehicle. I can look on it as well if you have questions.

Joe
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 8:10 PM
Tiny
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Very helpful thanks! Weather is good that is why I want to work on cars before rain hits, lol. I will check and let you know what I find for sure. I am thinking about a 2011 Durango with a Hemi coming at auction tomorrow, runs well even with high miles, those Hemi engines I like. The 3.6 always tapping and needing a lifter or more, this one here as well.
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 8:16 PM
Tiny
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Let me know what you find. As far as the Hemi, not too much room to work under the hood. LOL Plus, the hemi tick. Ugh!

They are all good until the break.

Take care and stay safe. Also, I just sent response on the Dart. Let me know your thoughts.

Joe
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 8:29 PM
Tiny
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Wow, you can't see a thing on this motor, hoses or nothing, even from bottom. But when I put in water it comes from top of transmission so either hoses or intake, got to remove intake, it's real tight. Or remove the windshield wipers trim/cowl?
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 1:40 PM
Tiny
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Found it. As suspected. This is similar to BMW x5 valley pan.
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 6:04 PM
Tiny
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Naser,

Where was the actual leak? Since you already have to intake off, I don't need to tell you about the one bolt on the left rear. Ugh!

If the leak wasn't the cooler, still suggest the sensors.

Joe
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:28 PM
Tiny
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Forgot to add the picture.
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:29 PM
Tiny
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Ugh! What a mess. LOL So it was the cooler. At least that is what it looks like has been removed.

It's nearly midnight. Why are you working on this thing now? LOL

Joe
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:42 PM
Tiny
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No, I removed it 3 hours ago. Yes, looks like the cooler, as soon as I pit in some water in the radiator it seeps from there. Ordered one should be in Wednesday. Never done these before, not bad except it's tight around intake brackets. Still got to remove valve cover and see which lifters making the noise, ugh. Done it few times on Grand Caravans and Town and Country, hopefully this is not much more complicated.
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:45 PM
Tiny
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I don't think you ever sleep. As far as the cooler, just make sure everything is clean and dry. Make sure to replace the o-rings as well. The sensors are up to you, but the customer may appreciate the idea so he doesn't have labor again in a month. LOL

As far as the valve covers, it's the same thing. You'll be fine.

Take care and let me know if you have other questions. It's nearly midnight and 6:00 AM comes quick.

Joe
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 8:52 PM

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