Help me identify coolant leak

[mookster]

2003 996 with 3.6L engine, C2

On Friday, while driving in the rain, I noticed my engine temperature increased.

The coolant tank was down approx 8 oz. I re-filled the coolant tank and replaced the coolant tank cap and took the vehicle for a test drive. When I returned to my residence, I discovered the leak was not in the coolant tank, but in the front left side of the engine. Attached are photos of the leak. Please help me identify my problem and potential costs. TIA

Mookster

Edited May 24, 2009 by mookster

[wvicary]

Possible water pump fault??

[RFM]

Check for water traces: hoses on top of the engine (OAS), water channel cover on front of the engine, cylinder head gasket.

[mookster]

Any ideas of labor time or costs to your suggestions?

Based on what I know...sometimes this is limited:

-The leak appears to be coming from the area photographed. The coolant was sprayed everywhere. When I mopped up the coolant, this seems to be the spot (drip) that coolant reappeared.

-Space is limited and I cannot see the top of the engine

-If it is a head gasket/water pump gone bad, I assume the engine needs to be dropped.

If it is a water pump or head gasket we can assume

R&I engine 5-6 hours

Oil change (with overlapping labor) part/materials $100

Coolant change (with overlapping labor) coolant $100

Please help me get a better feel on this internet diagnosis/cost so I can be educated when discussing with the repair facility.

All help is appreciated.

[wvicary]

Guess work as to what it might be just adds confusion to the mix. It could a loose hose clamp on a coolant hose and the coolant is pooling on the block and dripping down. Best take in to a good indie or dealer and they should be able to spot the cause of the leak in no time at all. The water pump is a straight forward and easy replacement. I would recommend getting it towed as we don't know the real cause of the leak, don't risk overheating these engine just to save the cost of a tow truck .

[mookster]

My vehicle is fixed.

The problem was determined to be the Oil Separator Assy (966 107-026 51) and related hoses.

While I was in there I did replace the equalizing tank and updated the cap.

A partial engine drop was required, 3 hours. Diagnostic labor, 1.5 hours and parts replacement labor (included replacement of fittings and hoses) 2 hours.

[wvicary]

Good result. Thanks for getting back to us.