Common Leak Locations:
* Radiator: Cracks, leaks at the seams, or a damaged radiator cap are frequent culprits. Inspect the radiator carefully for any visible cracks or leaks, especially at the bottom corners and along the seams. Pressure test the radiator to pinpoint leaks that aren't immediately visible.
* Hoses: Look for cracks, bulges, or soft spots in all hoses, including the upper and lower radiator hoses, heater hoses, and bypass hoses. Pay attention to the hose clamps; loose clamps can cause leaks.
* Water Pump: Leaks usually appear as drips or a steady stream near the pump's weep hole (a small hole near the pulley). Check for fluid around the pump.
* Thermostat Housing: Cracks or a failing gasket can cause leaks here. Look for wetness around the housing.
* Radiator Cap: A faulty cap can allow pressure to escape, leading to coolant loss, even if there's no visible leak elsewhere. Replace it if suspected.
* Head Gasket: This is a more serious issue. A blown head gasket can leak coolant into the engine oil (making the oil milky) or into the combustion chambers (causing white smoke from the exhaust). This requires a professional diagnosis and repair.
* Engine Block or Cylinder Head Cracks: These are rare but possible, often resulting from overheating. They require significant repairs.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Visual Inspection: Start with a thorough visual inspection of the entire cooling system while the engine is cold. Look for any obvious signs of coolant leaks – wet spots, stains, or puddles underneath the car.
2. Pressure Test: A pressure test is crucial. A mechanic can use a cooling system pressure tester to pressurize the system and pinpoint leaks that might not be visible during a visual inspection. This is highly recommended.
3. Check Coolant Level: Regularly monitor the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. A consistently decreasing level indicates a leak.
4. Inspect the Exhaust: Look for white or milky smoke from the exhaust, a sign of a potential head gasket problem.
5. Check Engine Oil: If the engine oil is milky or has a chocolate milkshake-like consistency, it strongly suggests a head gasket leak.
6. Smell the Coolant: If the coolant has a sweet smell, it's likely the original coolant. However, a burnt, acrid smell might indicate a leak near a hot component.
Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Always allow the engine to cool completely before attempting any inspection or repair. Coolant is hot and can cause severe burns.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing these checks or repairs yourself, take your Lincoln Town Car to a qualified mechanic. A blown head gasket, for example, requires specialized tools and expertise.
By systematically checking these areas, you can significantly narrow down the source of the cooling system leak. Remember to consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 Lincoln Town Car for detailed diagrams and procedures.
