Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Maintenance Coolant Leaks!

Hi,

my Mondeo 2.0 is leaking coolant at ~1 pint per week.

I replaced the (rusted) pipe that runs under the sump but this made no difference.

I then removed the exhaust heat shield and had a look at the block. From ther presence of a green residue, it appeared that the fluid was leaking from the (Ouch) head gasket. As it must be a small leak, I tried using block sealant in the water, but having now flushed the system, re-filled it and driven it for a few days, the level seems to have dropped again, although I can't actually see any water anywhere.

Does anyone have any ideas about what to do next?

Changing the head gasket is a last resort, as it will be a waste of money if the problem is caused by something else.

Thanks,

Mark.

It might be leaking internally as well as externally. Does the engine run rough on startup and blow white smoke?

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'98.5 Mystique GS ATX/re-contented door lights/K&N Filter/Energy Suspension Sway Bar Bushings/Mintex Street Pads/high-beam bulbs in low-beams/Pioneer DEH-P3100 receiver/Pioneer TS-A6855's in all doors/removed ding gaurds

Take it to your mechanic for a checkup on the compression of each cylinder. If you get any cylinder with a lower compression than the others.....head gasket change for sure, cuz you´re leaking inside.

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Contour 1996
Pearl White
Zetec 2.0 I4
Original Ford Air Spoiler
K&N Intake Hig Flow Air Filter
K&N addittional head emmission exhaust filter
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Nology Hot Wires
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MTX Bluethunder Amp. 100W x 4 RMS
Kenwood CPD-900
6-Disc Magazine
Ebaich Springs
BNM white gauges
MOMO sport pedal covers
MOMO F-16 Shift Knob

[This message has been edited by thxex (edited May 01, 2001).]

I have no trouble with engine performance (which is very good for a 2 litre wagon), either when starting or when hot.
The coolant doesn't become discoloured and It doesn't overheat.

I will have to get it checked out though, before problems do start occurring.