Coolant Level:
- Water Pump Issue: If the water pump is malfunctioning, the coolant level in the reservoir may be lower than usual due to leakage.
- Head Gasket Issue: A faulty head gasket can cause the engine to consume coolant, leading to a decrease in the coolant level.
Overheating:
- Water Pump Issue: A faulty water pump may fail to circulate coolant properly, causing the engine to overheat.
- Head Gasket Issue: A blown head gasket can allow combustion gases to leak into the coolant system, leading to overheating.
Visual Inspection:
- Water Pump Issue: Look for signs of coolant leakage around the water pump, including drips, stains, or puddles.
- Head Gasket Issue: Remove the spark plugs and inspect for coolant in the cylinders or around the spark plug holes.
Pressure Test:
- Water Pump Issue: A pressure test can identify leaks in the cooling system, including a faulty water pump.
- Head Gasket Issue: A cylinder head pressure test can detect compression leaks caused by a blown head gasket.
Exhaust Smoke:
- Head Gasket Issue: If the head gasket is damaged, it can allow combustion gases to leak into the coolant, resulting in white exhaust smoke.
Oil Condition:
- Head Gasket Issue: A blown head gasket can cause coolant to mix with the engine oil, resulting in a milky or foamy appearance of the oil.
Engine Performance:
- Head Gasket Issue: A faulty head gasket can affect engine performance, causing issues like misfires, rough idling, or decreased power.
It is important to have a proper diagnosis conducted by a qualified mechanic or technician to accurately determine whether the water pump or head gasket is the cause of the issue in your 1996 Chrysler LHS.
