I have a coolant leak that I am almost certain is coming from the timing chain cover gasket. It seems to be right at one of the waterpump/timing chain cover bolt. Is it worth while to try removing the bolt, using the special sealant I have seen mentioned here one the bolt, and re-torquing the bolt? Seems to me that if it coolant fom the timing chain cover, it is leaking past the bolt threads. I don't seem to be getting any coolant in the oil. Or do I just bite the bullet and change the timing cahin cover gasket. A LOT of work.

 

I would first check for a pinhole leak from somewhere else.
It sprays to another location like where you see it now.

If coolant is coming out the bolt hole then time to change the water pump.
If timing chain cover gasket was broken you would have coolant in the oil pretty darn fast.
16psi pressure in warmed up cooling system and 0psi pressure in timing chain cover, so.......coolant would be in the oil and easy to see if that was the case.

 

Generally RonD would be correct but on the 3.0's the gaskets tend to leak on the outside of the passages for the water pump mine leaked and was completely sealed between where the oil lubricates the chain and the portion that passes coolant to and from the pump. Also it is a very common problem on the motors also the one bolt you speak of is i assume the top left bolt that goes through the pump and cover into the block and actually three bolts on that side go all the way to the water jacket and can leak. Its possible to reseal those bolts individually but as stated if the gasket is damaged and continues on unattended it can eventually break down to the point where it leaks in the oil. In my opinion if you have basic tools and a saturday its a good idea to swap it if you suspect its leaking considering its a common issue. Cost me $100 in parts including a new water pump and about 8 hours total but i worked off and on over a weekend to do it

 

Thanks RonD. I have the sealant on two of the bolts and will pressure test it in a while. I figure, if it does work, I will watch the oil VERY carefully. I mainly just drive it bacjk and forth to work. About 5 miles each way. If it doesn't work, I will start the teardown. They just made it such a PITA to get at everything.

 

I have it about 90% apart. Spent about 4 hours today. I need to unbolt the steering pump/ac compressor bracket next. Anyone have a diagram or pictures showing exactly where the bolts are? I remember seeing it on here somewhere.

 

I have it about 90% apart. Spent about 4 hours today. I need to unbolt the steering pump/ac compressor bracket next. Anyone have a diagram or pictures showing exactly where the bolts are? I remember seeing it on here somewhere.