Jeep Strokers

Hey guys, I'm a newbie here with a new motor. It's my original motor that came out of my 89 Sahara, it's a 4.2 that has been bored .030 over and has a few goodies. The goodies consist of an upgraded comp cam with new lifters and springs, some head work to smoothen out the air chambers, and a motorcraft 2150 carb. I have just gotten her to start up for the first time, but I have a problem... I have water leaks, I presume around the rear main seal, but for sure a leak on top of the head where the intake manifold bolts to the head. Is it a gasket issue?

Thanks for the help,
Collin

If you have a water leak around the rear main seal, you probably have more than one problem.
I would look around the freeze plug first. there is one on the back of the head (on the 4.0 anyway).
It could also be a gasket or cracked head issue.
If it is the rear freeze plug, you have to remove the head to be able to pound it in OR you can get one of those rubber expandable ones sold at many autopart store. Ive seen them on race cars at the local race track and they hold up fine.
http://www.dormanproducts.com/c-354-exp ... ubber.aspx

This motor is brand new with all new freeze plugs, the head passed the pressure test. I am pretty sure that there is a intake manifold gasket leak that may be dripping down making it look like a freeze plug. Once the motor cools, I will go take a look and report back!

Collin89Sahara wrote:This motor is brand new with all new freeze plugs, the head passed the pressure test. I am pretty sure that there is a intake manifold gasket leak that may be dripping down making it look like a freeze plug. Once the motor cools, I will go take a look and report back!

I had a freeze plug leaking behind the header. The engine is less then a year out of engine shop. it happens. At least its easier to replace than a head gasket.

Is your intake one of the water heated ones??

My intake is off of a CJ...................... So I need to check that out.