Possibly a serious water leak... I think

[Curt]

Possibly a serious water leak... cracked intake manifold

OK Explorer fans.... get ready for this.
Driving home today I started loosing water, and with a quick inspection could not find where the water was coming from. Upon getting home and removing my air intake hose assembly and the throttle cable cover I discovered what looks to be a crack in my intake manifold. If you are looking at the engine it is right below the throttle body, to the left of the bracket holding the power steering pump, and to the right of the T-Stat housing. There is a little cavity there between all this stuff. I hope that makes since.

Anyway, after warming it back up and gaining pressure water begins to spray out of "this crack". I can't tell if this is where two pieces join with a gasket, or if it is indeed a crack. Either way it doesn't look like an easy hour fix.

Has anyone ever experienced a "CRACK" here?

I have a really good photo I took if anyone wants to see it. I am not sure how to add a photo to this thread. Give me your e-mail address and I can send it to you.

Thanks in advance
Curt

 

[Curt]

Water Leak

Well after further investigation I believe my problem is probably a lower intake manifold gasket. All the dirt and grime on the engine made it look like a crack.

Is this a pretty staright forward job, and does anyone have any recommendations on what else I should do with all this stuff off? My 94 has 159,000 on it.