So i just had my brakes done as i am out on the road i had them done at a shop, the mechanic tells me that i really need an entire new engine as he says there is a coolant leak. He says the coolant leak is coming from the Heads? Says that LR says to replace the entire motor and not just do the head gasket.
Funny thing is that i am not losing coolant and i haven't had any issues with the vehicle other than squeaky brakes. It doesn't run rough or idle strange and hasn't even hesitated to start, ever.
so the questions are:
What signs should i be looking for with a bad Head Gasket and if it is bad shouldn't i just do the AB kit and knock it out? Why am i being told that i need an entire new engine?
I will take it to my guy in AZ once back in state, but for now am on the open road doing some vacationing.

ANy answers greatly appreciated

 

HAHHAHAHHAHA... you need a new engine? what a moron.... Is you CEL coming on? keep an eye on the coolant level to make sure if you are out doing a lot of driving. You are in the range for HG replacement. But yes I would do the AB kit and not listen to that "mechanic"

 

This is a simple one, once a week when you check your oil check the coolant level too.
They make it easy by using a see through coolant reservoir, make sure it is at the "FULL" mark all the time.
Get into a routine on checking everything under the hood every Sun before you go to church for example.
That way it has sat all night, and try to park it in the same spot every day so you can check for leaks.
Go back to that guy and say really? Wow! I guess you are right, I will bring it back on Mon and have you do the work and I will bring you a blank check.
Then just drive away and never look back.
That guy is a total tool.

 

No cel, nothing. The damn thing runs perfect (knocking on wood) I will start the weekly fluid check, as of now I had been doing it with every fill up. I am blown away at the ease this guy told me about needing a new engine.

Thank you much for the info.

Ps. This forum has already saved me a ton of money, i would be lost without the help.

 

What a tool, I ran into a couple of tools as well when looking at fixing my engine. In the end I rebuilt my own engine completely... I'm talking from bare block up. That is after I was told by 2 indy LR mechanics to get a new engine.

 

iPhone update from the road. Still driving and still no CEL or any other symptoms. Checked fluid levels and everything looks normal as usual.

 

good. then keep on rovin!

 

It is very simple, have someone do a coolant pressure test to verify if there is a coolant leak, if there is, fix it, you don't need to replace an engine over a leak.
If you want some help with this, send me your number, I'll be glad to walk you thru what to do.

 

Update:
did some minor upkeep today that included checking all fluids and changind Power Steering fluid via a technique listed by disco mike and still no leaks to be found and zero loss of fluids. Oil is beautiful like honey and i cannot find a drop of anything on the concrete.
I am guessing that I'm good and the mechanic was trying to screw me or had no idea what he was looking at. I do have a question as to greasing my u joints as they are greasable due to previous owner having them rebuilt. Do I buy the equipment to do it or do I have a shop do it and save myself the work? If I do it myself can anyone suggest the best or most appropriate grease.

Thanks in advance

 

Go to HD and get a mini Lucas grease gun and a pack of grease and do it yourself.