1. Locate the Leak:
- Park your Blazer on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Allow it to cool down for a few minutes to avoid hot surfaces or scalding.
- Look under the vehicle and inspect for any visible signs of antifreeze leaking.
- Check around the rear of the engine, paying close attention to the intake manifold gaskets, water pump, heater core hoses, and any other potential leak points.
2. Check the Intake Manifold Gaskets:
- The intake manifold gaskets are a common source of coolant leaks.
- Remove the intake manifold plenum to inspect the condition of the gaskets.
- If they're cracked, damaged, or brittle, they may need to be replaced.
3. Examine the Water Pump:
- The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine.
- Check the water pump for any signs of leakage or damage.
- If the pump shaft seal is faulty or the pump is worn out, it may need replacement.
4. Inspect the Heater Core Hoses:
- The heater core hoses carry hot coolant to and from the heater core.
- Look for any cracks, bulges, or signs of wear on the heater core hoses.
- Replace any damaged hoses.
5. Tighten Loose Connections:
- Check all coolant hoses, clamps, and connections to ensure they are properly tightened.
6. Replace Faulty Components:
- If you've identified the source of the leak and it requires replacing a component, use high-quality replacement parts and follow the recommended procedures for the repair.
7. Check the Coolant Level and Pressure:
- Once you've fixed the leak, replenish the coolant level as per the vehicle's specifications.
- Run the engine and check for proper coolant flow and circulation.
- Monitor the coolant level over the next few days to ensure there are no further leaks.
8. Pressure Test the Cooling System:
- You can perform a pressure test on the cooling system to identify any remaining leaks under pressure.
- If the system holds pressure without any visible leaks, you've successfully fixed the issue.
Remember to follow proper safety precautions when working on your vehicle. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions related to your Blazer model.
