Coolent Leak

[bjp]

Need advice, new to D-90 and not a engine guy. Just noticed a major leak when I left parking spot. Bright green, I assume coolent. Was fine earlier today, went to wash it and there it was. Dripping from under oil filter. Can I drive it to the shop or have it towed? Suggestions. Talk about bad timing not only the fourth, but I have all the seats apart and in the process of painting the frames. Exmoors just got here.

Follow-up Post:

Also noticed a little spray on hood.

[cellulararrest]

water pump? If I'm picturing it properly that's pretty close to directly above the oil filter. It might be dripping down.

[Stmpede]

Yeah, I would check that first. Depending on the size of the leak and the distance to the shop you might be able to top it off and make it, but if you have any doubt, get it towed. Paying for a tow sucks, but not as much as paying for an engine or head gaskets!

[bjp]

about 9 miles. If i check my gauges and it does not heat up would I make it. It has stopped leaking but it left a nice puddle. Have not started it since.

[Stmpede]

well, i would top it off, and you could try driving it cold. If the leak isn't too big you'll probably make it, but definitely keep an eye on the gauge. If it creeps up even a little I would stop and let it cool down again. You'll be surprised how quickly it heats up if there is a bad leak!

[landrovered]

My 110 water pump started leaking when the vehicle was not running but was at operating temperature, it did not leak while running. I knew the water pump was knackered and needed replacement but it did enable me to drive home which was over 150 miles. Ruined the weekend of wheeling but better safe than sorry.

I have had rover water pumps chirp once and then bleed out immediately it just depends on what is failing.

See if it is leaking while running, follow the above advice.

[Neil McCauley]

Get it from AutoZone. It's made in Japan but they have a lifetime guarantee thats saved on their servers! The one on my D still works great and its been at least 3 - 4 years.

[bjp]

Thanks for the input guys. It was the Water Pump. Not a cheap fix but West Coast Rovers had me in and out in 2 hours. Had to have the 90 back for the long weekend.