Compression test time. If your system holds pressure you're golden. If not, well, download the RAVE and buy a box of gloves.

 

So you bled the cooling system, and since then you've added 2 gallons of water? I'm a relative n00b to LR's too and even I can tell you that if you bled it, there is no way you should have that big of a bubble. Isn't 2 gallons roughly 1/2 the capacity of the entire system? Where do you think it's all going? I totally understand not wanting to think that it's the HG, but don't let yourself slip into a state of denial.

You may need plugs/wires too, but you need to go have your cooling system tested for exhaust gases.

 

Since I replaced the thermostat I would say about 3 to 4 gallons, I was going to do a compression test on the cylinders first, pull the plugs and see if they are wet, etc.....dont have the tools to the the cooling compression test.

Keep in mind before the upper rad hose blew I had the waterfall sound at that time, just didnt know that was relative to the cooling system. The LR never over heated or had coolant loss before hand either. Thing is when the upper rad hose blew out about 60 miles out of vegas I didnt bleed it properly so there could of been air stuck in there. Going to drive around for a bit and let cool then see if the coolant goes down.

 

HB has a coolant system pressure test kit, never owned it myself, but it's got relatively good reviews:

http://www.harborfreight.com/radiato...kit-65053.html

And 20% off if you have a store nearby:
http://dealspl.us/imageview.php?f=108017

 

At that rate you should smell coolant in your exhaust gasses.
My guess is you have problems with the cold starts because you have coolant pooling in the cylinders. Check your spark plugs and see if they look steam cleaned. Poke a piece of string in the spark plug hole and see if it comes out wet with coolant.

 

Cool thanks for the heads up and the coupon, HF is just down the street. When I get back from the drive, Ill pull the plugs and let you know what I find.

 

took out number 6 plug today....you guys were right. blown head gasket. Plug is rusty brown....

So how easy is it to change the head gasket and should I mill the head while im at it? doesnt look like the other side is leaking but might as well change both sides while im at it.. How much for the parts, I heard somewhere around 500.

 

Contact PT Schram www.ptschram.com for the gasket kit.
You have to do both sides at the same time, or at least it is the sensible thing to do. Have the heads checked for warp and machined if required.