Coolant leak

[GordyB]

Can someone let me know what the likely cause is of the coolant leak I have on my 1.8T please. I can't see where it's coming from as I can't get the car up high enough to happily work under it and can't see properly from the top due to all the lpg bits behind the engine. Looking at it from the front, under the first intake runner on the manifold (left) there appears to be a coolant pipe about 1" diameter (external), near the dipstick. This feels dry. Must be something near or below. Coolant is collecting on the bottom/lower engine mount and dripping off.

I've just changed the PRT and intake manifold gasket but pretty sure the hoses are all back on properly. I had this leak before but assumed it was from the inlet manifold gasket but it must be lower down. Just want to know what to check next, it will be a week before I can get to it again though.

Any ideas?

[Lovel]

It sounds like the EMPTY thermostat dummy housing. It could be the o-rings at either end or the bolted joint in the middle of the housing can warp and weep

[GordyB]

Thanks Gary, can you/anyone link to a picture of this so I know what to look for?

[Lovel]

This photo shows a conventional thermostat housing and pipes. However you have a PRT fitted and should have the empty thermostat housing.
I have seen the steel pipe that runs along to the gearbox end leak on some vehicles and hence a close look of that should be carried out too.
If you find the therm housing leaking and decide to change it out, Install with silicon grease on O-rings or similar lubricant, because if you don't the o-rings will roll and twist upon assembly leading to potential leaks. Also makes it much easier to remove in future.

Item 15, but make sure it is empty upon fitting. The correct part for PRT turbo model comes with the stat innards removed (laughingly called a restrictor) , a crazy solution and does cause some confusion amongst many mechanics leading to running problems.
http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GRID001696

[T-Cut]

Originally Posted by Lovel

Item 15, but make sure it is empty upon fitting. The correct part for PRT turbo model comes with the stat innards removed (laughingly called a restrictor)

This is the part Lovel mentions, the outer ring of the basic thermostat.


It has to be included or the housing will leak.

TC