2002 ranger edge 3.0 auto trans. I've been losing radiator fluid for months and I found coolant leaking where the engine and trans meet? Is it rear main seal?

 

No, most likely a core plug(freeze plug)
Could be from pinhole in heater hose or coolant hose if there is a heated PCV Valve

 

Is there a way to test if its the heater core or freeze plug?

 

I'm pretty sure its freeze plugs then. There are two right where engine and trans meet right? It must be because there's a small puddle its not small drips they are large

 

I think its head gasket. Coolant leaking right above oil filter

 

More likely a cracked head. Head gaskets usually fail between cylinders or at a water jacket internally. But if this has been going on for months, I suppose it could eat away at the gasket long enough for fluid to find its way out the side.

 

 

What do you think? Head crack or head gasket?

 

Hard to tell but either way the heads need to come off. Then you will know for sure!

 

When you take the heads off, you will want to take them to a machine shop and have them reconditioned. They will check them for cracks. Usually way cheaper than buying replacements. If you don't, you risk wasting your money on gaskets.

 

How much does that cost? I see a site that has heads for 250 each

 

Machine shop rates vary. You'd have to call around and ask. Last ones I had done were $75 each... that was few years ago though. It's not a service people use regularly. lol

 

Well how do I reset the valve train? I was told I need to do that. Idk what that even mean lol. I'll be fine to take everything apart and whatnot

 

It's nothing complicated. On my Vulcan V6 it describes as such: Install push rods. Move rocker arms
into position with push rod and snug rocker arm bolts. Rotate crankshaft (6303) to position camshaft
lobe(s) straight down and away from push rods.(Both Valves Closed) Tighten rocker arm bolt to 11 Nm (8 lb-ft) to seat
rocker arm into cylinder head. Final-tighten bolt to 26-38 Nm (19-28 lb-ft). Verify the torque values for your year vehicle.