Coolant Level Drops

2000 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
22,800 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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OLDWEEVIL
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My engine coolant level continually drops (the Add Coolant light comes on every 2-3 days), and my engine oil level has risen.

I changed the oil, but rather than any sort of foam or milky look to the oil it was actually slightly thicker than normal (and it was not more than 500 miles overdue for the change).

The engine has not been overheating, nor have I developed a miss in the engine. The oil pressure has been steady.

I'm really at a loss for what's going on - I'm not sure whether it's a blown head gasket, cracked head, or cracked block - hoping it might be something simpler or easier.
Mar 4, 2009 at 3:02 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:
Have you checked everywhere for a leak? Also, has the oil level raised since the oil change? Is there any oil in the coolant? If you lay cardboard under the truck at night, are there any indications that there is a leak?

If none of the above things indicate a problem, you need to check the engine compression to see if there is a cylender or two lower than the others.

Here is a 'How To' for checking compression. If you done't have the gauge, you may be able to rent one at a parts store or you can purchase one at the 'Test Equipment Store' site on this page.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Jul 7, 2020 at 1:31 PM
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OLDWEEVIL
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We've looked all over for a leak but looks like today we've found the culprit - leak in the intake gasket.

Sure enough, when we drained the oil it was very watery at the bottom - but the rest of the oil looked clean. No frothy, foamy, milky look to it.
Jul 7, 2020 at 1:31 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The intakes are a common problem on these. Good luck. If you have other questions, let us know.

Joe
Jul 7, 2020 at 1:31 PM