Coolant in Combustion Chamber (1)
Engine Mechanical - 5.3L L84 or 6.2L L87 | Diagnostic Information and Procedures | Document ID: 5600957 Coolant in Combustion Chamber Coolant in Combustion Chamber
| Cause | Correction |
|---|---|
| DEFINITION: Excessive white smoke and/or coolant type odor coming from the exhaust pipe may indicate coolant in the combustion chamber. Low coolant levels, an inoperative cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat may lead to an “overtemperature” condition which may cause engine component damage. Note: While not always conclusive, use of hydrocarbon block test kits may reveal hydrocarbons indicating combustion chamber gases in cooling system. It is important to follow the kit instructions. This is not a substitute for service information. Combustion leak tests are available from a wide variety of aftermarket suppliers. 1. A slower than normal cranking speed may indicate coolant entering the combustion chamber. Refer to Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate. 2. Remove the spark plugs and inspect for spark plugs saturated by coolant or coolant in the cylinder bore. 3. Inspect by performing a cylinder leak-down test. During this test, excessive air bubbles within the coolant may indicate a faulty gasket or damaged component. 4. Inspect by performing a cylinder compression test. Two cylinders “side-by-side” on the engine block, with low compression, may indicate a failed cylinder head gasket. Engine Compression Test | |
| Cracked intake manifold or failed gasket | Replace the components as required. |
| Faulty cylinder head gasket | Replace the head gasket and components as required. Cylinder Head Replacement - Left Side Cylinder Head Replacement - Right Side Cylinder Head Overhaul |
| Warped cylinder head | Machine the cylinder head to the proper flatness, if applicable and replace the cylinder head gasket. Cylinder Head Overhaul |
| Cracked cylinder head | Replace the cylinder head and gasket. |
| Cracked cylinder liner or engine block | Replace the components as required. |
| Cylinder head or engine block porosity | Replace the components as required. |