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Topic: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket (Read 394 times) previous topic - next topic
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Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Mechanic says the Timing Cover is leaking, so that's where the coolant smell is coming from under the hood.  The part isn't expensive, but I'm waiting to find out what the labor is.  I guess I should put this over in the technical forum...  Anyone ever replace one of these?

They're saying they can seal the roof with a rubberized product that doesn't require them to remove the old dried up caulking.  That sounds like a shortcut to me, no?  Also, rubberized product?

Lastly, $400 to replace the gasket around the rear window. It's a little cracked here and there and there is a one inch gap where the ends are supposed to meet. Now it's going to rain for two days, so I'm thinking I might as well wait to do the window and the roof since they can't get it done before the rain anyway.  It'll also give me a chance to see if the stain on the shade is old or new. Maybe it isn't leaking at all anymore.

Thoughts?

Thanks....

Mimi

Mimi
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #1 –
Quote from: Opuntia  - 
Mechanic says the Timing Cover is leaking, so that's where the coolant smell is coming from under the hood. 

They're saying they can seal the roof with a rubberized product that doesn't require them to remove the old dried up caulking.  That sounds like a shortcut to me, no?  Also, rubberized product?

Lastly, $400 to replace the gasket around the rear window. It's a little cracked here and there and there is a one inch gap where the ends are supposed to meet.

The timing cover only contains oil, not coolant. Ask for a better explanation or get a second opinion.
You have a leak in the cooling system, the timing cover is not part of the cooling system.
To test for coolant,leaks, your mechanic should pressurized the hot cooling system and let it sit, under pressure, for several hours to allow leaks to develop visible spots. It's a standard test.

If it is also leaking oil, you have two or more problems.
If the timing cover is resealed, have the timing chain and gears checked, along with the water pump, radiator, fan clutch hoses and belt. This is the time to inspect and replace any iffy items, while the radiator is removed.
These are all normal wear items. Do make sure the hoses and belt(s) are not old and rotted, a common find on old RVs
BTW, it would be useful to disclose what chassis and engine your 1992 LD has.

Please, do not coat the roof with any rubberized sealant, it will work for a year or two and then start peeling off.
Once done, you will need to strip all the sealant off the seams for a proper resealing. Lots to research here.
 
If the shop is actually going to disassemble the window and use new gaskets, then $400 isn't a bad price.
Hope they know how hard it can be to removed LD windows, without damaging it..
You can seal it yourself for a lot less if you want to spend your limited funds on more crucial items.
A tube black 3M 5200, a roll of masking tape, some skill and patience is all it takes to reseal it.
Whatever you do, resealing the perimeter of the all windows with white 3M 5200 FastCure, is a good idea.

Larry


Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #2 –
"it would be useful to disclose what chassis and engine your 1992 LD has."
---
IIRC, it's an E350 with a 460 engine, but don't know if it's a 5.8L or a 7.5L.  ?

Mimi, do follow Larry's advice on these engine and chassis repairs and replacements (and the suggestion to get a second opinion on the "timing cover" issue); I understand that it can be tempting to defer needed maintenance/repairs and/or "band aid" to save money, but maintenance postponed, poorly done, or done with inappropriate materials is a rig killer. If this mechanic isn't savvy about Ford engines and systems (particularly the particular engine in the 1992), and/or you don't have confidence in his/her recommendations or diagnoses, you may want to search out alternatives.




2003 TK has a new home
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #3 –
I remember the ad for Mimi's coach saying it had the 460 Ford. So with the 460 the timing cover has 2 water passages going through it to supply the water pump. The water pump attaches to the timing cover. So this timing cover does have the potential to have a coolant leak on the back side where it attaches to the engine block. And also where the water pump attaches to the timing cover.
Lynn and Lori
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #4 –
Quote from: Larry Wade  - 
The timing cover only contains oil, not coolant. Ask for a better explanation or get a second opinion.
You have a leak in the cooling system, the timing cover is not part of the cooling system.
I thought the smell of antifreeze would have to originate from the radiator. When he told me it covered the water pump, the smell then seemed to make sense to me. He seemed to fumble over his words though, so I'm scheduled to speak to the owner tomorrow about it.
Quote
To test for coolant,leaks, your mechanic should pressurized the hot cooling system and let it sit, under pressure, for several hours to allow leaks to develop visible spots. It's a standard test.

That, they did. I won't know the results until tomorrow. Would they need to pressurize both the heating and cooling systems separately?
Quote
If the timing cover is resealed, have the timing chain and gears checked, along with the water pump, radiator, fan clutch hoses and belt. This is the time to inspect and replace any iffy items, while the radiator is removed.
I spoke to them about replacing any hoses that show wear, dryrot, or other damage.
Quote
BTW, it would be useful to disclose what chassis and engine your 1992 LD has.
Yes, sorry. I'm a little displaced at the moment, so all the LD manuals are inside the rig at the shop and I don't remember the engine or chassis. I'll get that info post haste.
Quote
Please, do not coat the roof with any rubberized sealant...

Yes, I know. I read some great info in the forum about this. I'll have a reputable RV repair shop take care of this for me. No rubber.

Quote
You can seal it yourself for a lot less if you want to spend your limited funds on more crucial items.
A tube black 3M 5200, a roll of masking tape, some skill and patience is all it takes to reseal it.
Whatever you do, resealing the perimeter of the all windows with white 3M 5200 FastCure, is a good idea.
Larry

I think I'll do it myself.  If I can just clean the gasket around the window, prep it and seal it myself, I'll do that, but which sealant do I use?  The rear window has a black rubber gasket around it.  Would the white sealant look out of place?

Thank you for your time and much needed guidance Larry.

Mimi
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #5 –
Quote from: Duro  - 
I remember the ad for Mimi's coach saying it had the 460 Ford. So with the 460 the timing cover has 2 water passages going through it to supply the water pump. The water pump attaches to the timing cover.
You are correct, I was wrong thinking that Ford had ended this practice with the 460.
Brings back old memories of having this issue on Ford 292-312 Y-blocks.
On an engine this old, the cover could have a leak caused by corrosion. Dorman sells a replacement.
Amazon.com: Dorman 635-101 Timing Cover: Automotive.

Larry
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #6 –
My 1991 E250 with a 350 and my 197? Country Squire Wagon with 427 had water pump dischage passages through the Timming Cover into the head for cooling that leaked..Every time the water pump is replaced the bolts through the  timming gear cover are removed, potenitlly starting a gasket leak between the heads and the cover.  So cover it all as stated previously.

i would avoid the rubberized metal roof coating.  I invision water getting under it causing extensive galvanic corrosion to the aluminum roof.
Rodney
1988 Mid Bath
 
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #7 –
Quote from: JCT  - 
"it would be useful to disclose what chassis and engine your 1992 LD has."
---
IIRC, it's an E350 with a 460 engine, but don't know if it's a 5.8L or a 7.5L.  ?

Mimi, do follow Larry's advice on these engine and chassis repairs and replacements (and the suggestion to get a second opinion on the "timing cover...

Yes, thanks. I plan to heed Larry's advice and guidance. I don't feel confident in what the mechanic has said so far, but will be meeting with his boss this morning.  However, as soon as 'the boss' suggested covering the old caulking on the roof with rubber (probably that liquid rubber in a spray can I see advertised all the time) I realized they aren't equiped to properly care for rv's, but are ready to work on it anyway.  Very disappointing as they came highly recommended for the quality of their work and honesty.  I may allow them to just change the fluids and then move on.

I will be speaking to an rv repair today that has wonderful Yelp reviews.  I hope that works out better for me.

Thanks...

Mimi
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #8 –
Quote from: Duro  - 
I remember the ad for Mimi's coach saying it had the 460 Ford. So with the 460 the timing cover has 2 water passages going through it to supply the water pump. The water pump attaches to the timing cover. So this timing cover does have the potential to have a coolant leak on the back side where it attaches to the engine block. And also where the water pump attaches to the timing cover.
Thank you. I haven't even read the manual yet!  I'll be studying up for a while. 

I think I'll let them reseal the timing cover, change the oil, other fluids and then find a reputable RV repair place.

Thanks Duro...
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #9 –
Quote from: Larry Wade link=msg=170640 [quote author=Larry Wade  - 

BTW, it would be useful to disclose what chassis and engine
Quote from: Larry Wade  - 

Larry
I have to get the manual which is in the rv at the mechanic but, as Duro said, it's a 460 Ford V8. I saved the ad.

I can't seem to find out by my research if the timing cover should be replaced or, if resealing it is the proper repair.  If you can point to information about that Larry, I'd be much appreciative.

Thanks...

Mimi
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #10 –
Quote from: Opuntia  - 
I realized they aren't equiped to properly care for rv's, but are ready to work on it anyway.  Very disappointing as they came highly recommended for the quality of their work and honesty.  I may allow them to just change the fluids and then move on.

I will be speaking to an rv repair today that has wonderful Yelp reviews.  I hope that works out better for me.

Mimi,

You will probably find that being the RV is a merging of a vehicle and a dwelling, you'll often need to separate the maintenance and repair "jobs" and not look for one stop shopping.

Automotive/truck mechanics are good for the chassis portion, RV servicers for the "house".   There will be some who can do both, but finding those that can do both well often leads to frustration.

Don't forget rvservicereviews.com to research these as another resource.
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #12 –
Quote from: Michelle C  - 
Mimi,

You will probably find that being the RV is a merging of a vehicle and a dwelling, you'll often need to separate the maintenance and repair "jobs" and not look for one stop shopping.

Automotive/truck mechanics are good for the chassis portion, RV servicers for the "house".   There will be some who can do both, but finding those that can do both well often leads to frustration.

Don't forget rvservicereviews.com to research these as another resource.
Thank you, yes, I discovered that in my conversation with the mechanic today.  I know they're willing to do it, but I do prefer a company that specializes in rv maintenance and repair. Thanks for the link.  There is some feedback here in the forum as well, so I'll review that.

Thank you☺
Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #13 –
Mimi have you considered taking it to the mothership for the window seal issues?
Lynn and Lori
Re: Timing cover leaking/Replace rear window gasket
Reply #14 –
Yes Duro, I thought about doing that and may very well do so to avoid catastrophe at the hands of someone who doesn't know what they're doing.  Upon visiting my LD at the mechanic, in the rain, I found two leaks.  I asked them to put a tarp over the roof and front vent.  Since the rig is parked at a bit of a slant, I don't know if it's one leak causing the drip at the front end and back end, or if the rear window is leaking, as well as, the front vent.  Once they finish repairing the other leaks (the timing cover seal is causing both an oil and coolant leak) in the next couple of days, they'll also replace the bushings in the steering (too much play for me) and the power boost for the brakes is leaking air which they'll fix, then I'm going to make an appt at the Mothership to have them seal the roof, all vents and windows.  I want that done properly.  After that, it looks like I'm done with repairs but for aesthetic upgrades ie. replace curtains, couches are pristine but I will cover them properly, install a Fantastic Fan, solar panels, led's, composting toilet, etc  I know some folks think I'll kill my resale value by putting in a composting toilet, but I have to do it.  For me personally, I prefer compost and a larger water capacity to having to carry and deal with a black tank.  I do hope it won't completely kill the resale value.  I am something of a purist when it comes to a vintage vehicle, but I also want to make it fit me and not the other way around.

No matter what, my LD will be a shining example of a well cared-for rig,:-)

Save a life.
Adopting a pet is the closest a human
will ever come to choosing a relative.
hsus.org  aspca.org
1992 Lazy Daze T/K  23.5' Ford 460 c.i.d./7.6 liter V8 engine, electronic fuel injection, E4OD 4-speed auto transmission
Full time 6/2017