I have a problem with a breach of the water and combustion systems, I was traveling on a motorway at approx 60mph, I took a turn for services and noticed once the engine had slowed that it was running erratically. I parked with in 2/3 minutes. However, I realised that the engine was such that I would have to call for a recovery, As I had parked nose in I wanted to move the vehicle back so the tow truck could access it. As I started the vehicle again there was a bang and a puff of blue smoke from the right side of the engine and into the cab. The vehicle was towed to my home location.

In assessing the problem we topped up the water and oil, and the engine sounded fine when roving but slightly erratic at idle, there is a problem with oil in the water, and as the engine heats up the water escapes more quickly and can be seen running from the exhaust. (images attached)

I Feel that the excessive leaking must be more that a head gasket issue and was wondering if there could be damage elsewhere that would allow the water to leak as quickly as I fill the radiator. I have also tried Steel seal, which was of no use is it leaked too quickly for it to seal the crack etc.

I am wondering, if, there maybe another seal on the engine that could have been damaged that would explain the water leaking through at speed.

I did take the vehicle for a short drive of about 8 miles, although the engine runs fine at speed the water loss is to excessive, and once stationary, there is a pool of oil below the front end of the engine, below the fan and belt mechanism.

Appreciate any thoughts or advice on next step to remedy the matter.

 

You are ready for an engine rebuild.

 

Sounds like you have major issues that cannot be resolved without physically dismantling parts of the engine..

Pull the plugs and see if one or more look contaminated. If so, pull the head on that side and inspect the gasket for a breach and the block for cracks or other damage

 

My experience with "head gasket in a can" or other things like that is, either they work long enough if you are selling the car, or not at all. I'd follow the advice posted, good luck.

 

Based on your post I guessed you are in the UK, with that, I don't know what advice to give you in regards to engine parts, or in your case, you might consider a crate engine replacement.

 

Hi,

might be a little dense here but could not find a way to reply to you response on my issue, but thats for the time.

I am limited on my abilities to replace the engine or have the work carried out so looks like I'll attempt some investigation myself...I think the water pump has gone and will check out the right side of the manifold and block as that's where the bang came from. AS you say, that may be the end result, but will look into how I get that done. Cheers.

Best Martin - London UK