Sudden Coolant Loss

[dlittle1116]

I have a 2006 Explorer 4x4 and was driving to work when I made a pass of a slow moving vehicle, but the explorer kicked in to passing gear and just a few seconds later, I noticed smoke from my rear view mirror. I made it to work with no loss of power, but the temp gauge was moving from hot to cold and the overheating light would come on and off. When I got to work, I popped the hood and there was coolant all over the top of the engine. When it cooled down I checked the radiator for coolant levels and it seemed bone dry (the reservoir was dry as well). I added water to the radiator the next day, and noticed water was leaking from somewhere under the alternator. I checked the oil and there was no "milkshake" look to it. Could this be a faulty water pump seal? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated...

 

[swshawaii]

Rent a coolant pressure test kit from most auto parts stores with a fully refundable deposit.
The tester will immediately pinpoint your leak(s) without guessing. Call stores for availability. GL

 

[dlittle1116]

Guys, I've done some tear down and found the area of the leak.... It's coming from that bolt circled.... My explorer is the 4.0L v6....any ideas what is behind that bolt and why it is leaking so rapidly? This leak is without the engine running.... thanks again!!

http://www.dropbox.com/gallery/35971822/1/2006 Explorer?h=bb4f73

 

[Town]

I think it may be one of 4 bolts that attach the compressor. It appears to thread into a boss to the lower side of the front of the cylinder head rather than a water jacket area but it is hard to tell.

I have diagrams of the front cover area and cylinder head area that I can send you in pdf form if you want. Just need your e-mail. PM me if you wish.