496 leaks antifreeze

[ccustomrides]

I have a 2002 496 mag. my coolant tank keeps leaking out. It leaks just whats in the tank and then stops. I did notice 2 seals or inserts made out of rubber going into the heat exchanger and thats where the coolant leaks out. I think thats where the tank also meets the exchanger. So is this a common problem and how bad is it to run like that and how much work would it take to replace the seals. It looks to be on the top of the engine so getting to everything is not all that bad. Also what are the little valves for on the heat exchanger. I see a little blue tool but have no clue what they do. They look like tire valves. 2002 496 mag with closed cooling. Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 496 leaks antifreeze

and how bad is it to run like that

Ayuh,... It ain't Bad, til ya Burn up yer Motor....

Goin' out with Known runnin' problems is Never a Good idea....

Got yer serial #s,..??

 

[45Auto]

Re: 496 leaks antifreeze

If you're talking about the heat exchanger end plates, they're held on by the bolt in the center. There's a flat rubber gasket and an o-ring behind each end plate. I don't think it's a common problem, I've never heard of any leaking before, but they are easy to replace, just remove the bolt.

I replaced mine on my 2003 496 when I cleverly picked up enough silt to take out the impellor, and pulled the ends off the heat exchanger to make sure it wasn't clogged.

The little blue plugs at the top of the motor are where you release the pressure on the air-operated engine water drain system. There should also be a little blue air pump clipped onto the motor a little below them.

You pump air into the schrader (tire) valve next to the blue release valves with the pump. After the water drains out of your motor you press the little blue buttons to release the air and close the drains.