Ford F-150 The entry level full size truck from Ford, one of America's best selling for decades.

1988 F150 Lariat - 302 Hidden Water Leak?

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Old Oct 3, 2024 | 03:41 PM
  #21  
Joe Reeves's Avatar
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From: Tampa Bay, Fl Area
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Heiko... I didn't realize the "Endoscopes" were that reasonably priced. I may get one just to have one on hand.
I'm determined to replace the water pump... I found some info, suggestions pertaining to getting the AC compressor and the P/S unit out of the way so as to free up or remove the AC bracket/support, needed so as to get at the last of the water pump bolts. I'll be back to that work tomorrow morning.

Should it be needed when I'm finished putting it all back together...... Blue Devil vs Bars Leak.... which do you feel is superior?
 
Old Oct 3, 2024 | 05:17 PM
  #22  
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Just personal preference, I'd use BlueDevil for freeze plugs and Bars for rear main seal.
Since you plan to change the water pump regardless so just finish it up and if you still see any leak or overheat, then buy the endoscope and check on the rear freeze plugs.
Yes, endoscope is so affordable these days, if you use it along with a fish tape you can do more with it or when you need to tighten a nut by feel because you can't see what's behind it, endoscope can be very helpful.
 

Last edited by heiko; Oct 3, 2024 at 05:22 PM.
Old Oct 31, 2024 | 12:45 PM
  #23  
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Well fellows, it was a long drawn out repair due to ordering parts and a special Power Steering puller/installer set via Amazon, having the Pulley Installer fail... the return, the wait, etc etc, plus finding that I had to remove the AC compressor and the PS Pump from the retaining bracket, then removing the retaining bracket... really one hellava job! Were you aware that they ship the water pump with the back plate loose (just lightly tight)... so glad I checked it.

Anyhow... everything back together, ready to go... filled with plain water. On checking for leaks (not run yet) I found water dripping as before from the rear portion of the oil pan. I wasn't too upset as it was noted that a sealer with the water might be needed. HOWEVER, after refilling the radiator, finding it only short a few ounces, then running the engine for perhaps 15 or 20 minutes, then letting it set for a hour or so... I found that the leak did not exist anymore??? Since that run out test, I have made perhaps 6 or seven 10 mile total trips (diner, Walmart, etc) and all is still well... no leak.

Possibly I am mistaken about not running the engine before seeing that leakage... and the fan blade was blowing water that had been sitting on top of the engine back toward the rear of the engine... a fake leakage?? I don't know... don't want to be looking a gift horse in the mouth, but will hold off with the Blue Devil solution until the leak reappears, if it ever does.

Okay... I'll be switching over to the 1989 Crown Vic next shortly... a month perhaps. I'm due for a break! 😎 Thanks guys, what would I do without ya!?
 
Old Nov 1, 2024 | 07:15 AM
  #24  
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You have my sympathy, having to handle that case all by yourself ! Glad you got it fixed, stay in touch OK .
 
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