3.0 coolant leak front pass.

[vipertblck]

2003 edge 3.0 5 spd 150K on it, 2wd. coolant leaking downside block front pass side. research showing it's a front cover gasket gone bad? sounds and looks right as I see the water pump bolts to the front of this cover, and the leak is coming where this cover bolts to the block. where the pump bolts to cover is all dry.

my question is how bad is it to do this job? I've done water pumps before (not the 3.0 specifically). is this easy walk in the park or pretty in depth and lengthy? deciding if I wanna do it or take it to someone.

 

[RonD]

Not an uncommon problem with the 3.0l

Google: ford ranger 3.0l timing cover gasket

There are a few videos

It is not as simple as changing a water pump, but it is just wrench work no special knowledge or tools are needed

 

[Rearanger]

Some of the through bolts on the water pump require sealer, such as Permatex High Performance Thread Sealant. Pay attention which bolts thread inside the water jacket, if in doubt use sealant.

Also sealing the area at the pan gasket is tricky getting RTV sealer on the corners and re-installing.

Otherwise not a bad job. Don't buy cheap water pump.