Timing case leaking

1999 DODGE DURANGO
197,000 MILES • 5.2L • V8 • AUTOMATIC
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SAMANTHA135
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When I pulled the water pump off of my car to replace it antifreeze is leaking out of a bolt hole on the timing case. Is this indicative of a larger problem or normal?
Aug 20, 2016 at 4:48 PM
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CARADIODOC
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You have a problem when coolant does not leak out of two holes. That means they are blocked by crud and corrosion. Clean those bolts with a wire wheel or wire brush, then coat the threads with silicone gasket sealer or some other type of sealant.
Aug 20, 2016 at 5:19 PM
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SAMANTHA135
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Thanks so much! Was being told it was a possible cracked block and wanted to verify.
Aug 20, 2016 at 6:01 PM
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CARADIODOC
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Nope. Those bolts go into the cooling system. That is why you should use sealant on the threads. I have owned a lot of cars with 318s and 340s, and even raced a few.
Aug 20, 2016 at 6:45 PM