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Coolant in Combustion Chamber (LDK, LHU)

Coolant in Combustion Chamber (LDK, LHU)


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.


1. A slower than normal cranking speed may indicate coolant entering the combustion chamber. Refer to Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate (LDK, LHU) .

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. Refer to Engine Compression Test .


Faulty cylinder head gasket

Replace the head gasket and components, as required. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection (LDK, LHU) and Cylinder Head Replacement .

Warped cylinder head

Replace the cylinder head and gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection (LDK, LHU) .

Cracked cylinder head

Replace the cylinder head and gasket.

Cracked cylinder liner

Replace the components, as required.

Cylinder head or block porosity

Replace the components, as required.