hi
please someone help

i have a problem with my 1998 vauxhall vectra ls 16 valve .it is leaking water after the engine has warmed.
its definetly not coming from the radiator and ive checked the hoses that are visible. it seems to be coming from above the starter motor. ive looked from underneath and above and i just cant see where its coming from i was just wondering if there was a hose above there or its something more severe. any info please.
thanks in advance
chris

CHRIS OSMAN, September 2007

water leaks from the gearbox end of the engine:

Possibilities:

1. Corroded/loose core plug. The core plugs are circular and approx 1.5in dia. These are a pressure fit into circular holes cast into the engine block water jacket and are designed as a safety device to pop out in the event of the coolant freezing in winter time thus avoiding a cracked engine block. They are prone to corrosion and therefore leakage if the correct coolant is not used in the cooling system. They cost pennies to buy but can be very awkward to tap in due to location. A fix can sometimes be acheived with 'Plastic padding' etc over the hole in the core plug or you might try some 'Radweld' in the cooling system.

2. There may be a heater hose connected at this end of the cylinder head. Often all thats required is to remove the hose clip trim off about 1 inch and refit.

3. The cylinder head gasket may be leaking.

Dann, September 2007

There are some hoses above the starter. Check the tightness of the clamps first. If not its a matter of replacing the faulty one. BE WARNED the big hose to the right of the starter can be a pig. Good luck.

Doug Osborne, September 2007