Radiator/Engine Steaming

[ddubz]

Hello,

I started having an issue with my Ford 6600 where steam is coming from the radiator or engine. I first noticed it in the winter when plowing snow with the loader, I filled the coolant and it went away at the time.

It's now the summer and when I was out running the bush hog the steaming came back and it kept going almost the entire time, the more load I put on the engine the worse it got. The cap is tight and I don't see any liquid around the overflow hose.

The radiator is a bit banged up so I was thinking of replacing it but I want to ensure the issue goes away if I'm going to drop $300 on a replacement. Is there anything else I should check or is a leaky rad maybe the issue?

Thanks!

 

[Sean in PA]

Could be the water pump leaking. Loosen the belt and see if the pulley has any side-to-side play. That usually indicates the bearings are worn and it will leak then.

 

[5azzmonkey]

Do you have access to a cooling system pressure tester? It makes finding leaks much easier as it can be used when the engine is cool and not running.

-Dave