Missing Water

[Ripper]

1985 4Runner, 22RE, 187k. This past month I have had to refill my radiator weekly. There has not been any noticeable leaks, drips, etc., just a complete loss of water. My upper and lower is good and radiator and cap are visibly ok. I have not done a pressure test. Does this indicate internal engine problems or might it be something else??

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

Pull your spark plugs and see if one or more looks suspiciously clean. Sounds like it's burning the water. Have you noticed any white steam coming out the tail pipe?

 

[Texx]

Head gasket's gone. I got to where I was putting a gallon a day in mine before I broke down and rebuilt the head.

 

[Ripper]

Thanks for the input.

I am the second owner of this vehicle and was given all the dealership maintenance records when i purchased it. It appears that the head gasket was replaced twice over the years. Is this a common problem with the 4Runner?; I have never had to change a head gasket on other vehicles before. Is there a "better" gasket available that I should be using when I replace it? Is there any other maintenace I should do once the head is off?

Thanks again !

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

If you do the headgasket you may as well get new timing chain, and oil pump while you're in there. A better cam shaft..... No the headgaskets on the 4 bangers are not a common problem...

 

[ryno3417]

Use caution

Remember, that water has to be going somewhere. Water will evaporate at high temps, but it may also be leaking into the crankcase. Anti-freeze is horrible on bearings. Check your oil and see if it is discolored in any way. If it is grey, don't restart it at all, you may cause huge damage. The head/head gasket is the most likely culprit. Find out before you make it any worse.

 

[Texx]

It's not uncommon to need a head gasket. Overheating is usually the culprit. Immediately, or over time.