I did a search for this and didn't get much back for info, except two posts in the sticky on head gaskets. So here's the question...
What is the chance a coolant additive like Stop Leak, etc. will fix an external head gasket leak?
I have a 2003 Outback Wagon, 2.5L engine. I don't really know the past maintenance history on it, as I bought it in June with 143,000 on it, and I've only put 3000 on since then.
I noticed the other day that steam was coming up from under the hood and I could smell the sweet smell of anti-freeze burning. After getting it home, I pulled the cover off the underside of the engine and it appears to have a small leak on the right side (passenger) of the engine and towards the rear.
I put some Stop Leak in. I figured that while it was only a couple $$, if it didn't work, no big deal.
Now maybe because I haven't reinstalled the engine cover, I'm not noticing any anti-freeze smell. And I haven't noticed any steam coming up either.
So what do you think? Is there a chance that the leak may be stopped?
Thanks in advance.
(So far the cost of repairs is rapidly approaching the cost of purchase... ) But I like the car...
Chris
What is the chance a coolant additive like Stop Leak, etc. will fix an external head gasket leak?
I have a 2003 Outback Wagon, 2.5L engine. I don't really know the past maintenance history on it, as I bought it in June with 143,000 on it, and I've only put 3000 on since then.
I noticed the other day that steam was coming up from under the hood and I could smell the sweet smell of anti-freeze burning. After getting it home, I pulled the cover off the underside of the engine and it appears to have a small leak on the right side (passenger) of the engine and towards the rear.
I put some Stop Leak in. I figured that while it was only a couple $$, if it didn't work, no big deal.
Now maybe because I haven't reinstalled the engine cover, I'm not noticing any anti-freeze smell. And I haven't noticed any steam coming up either.
So what do you think? Is there a chance that the leak may be stopped?
Thanks in advance.
(So far the cost of repairs is rapidly approaching the cost of purchase... ) But I like the car...
Chris