Possible head gasket or water pump problem.

dj045 · Feb 1, 2014

Hi, got a problem where the coolant on my 84' 944 is backing out the expansion overflow once the car gets up to normal operating temp.

There's a also a kind of squeaking sound coming from around the front of the engine after we let her idle for a while.

Things we've checked/changed so far:

1. Checked oil filler and dipstick for milky oil = Oil looks fine and level was in the middle between min and max.
2. Pressure tested coolant system = No leaks found
3. Changed old thermostat (2 years old) for a brand new one from Porsche = Same problem with coolant backing out.
4. Removed the alternator belt and power steering belt = Squeaking still happens

Are there any other things I should check that will confirm or eliminate some possibilities?

Also does anyone know a good independent Porsche mechanic in the Kent area?

Thanks in advance.

ChasR · Feb 1, 2014

If you say a squeak is appearing from the front of the engine with both aux belts removed I would have said that sounds like a cambelt issues, possibly of the water pump or tensioner variety.

Either way I would get it looked at sooner rather than later given the consequences of if the timing gear went to pot.

edh · Feb 1, 2014

Check the expansion tank for exhaust gases - get a friendly MOT man to wave the gas probe above the open tank. If it picks up any exhaust gases then you know you have a h/g issue. If it doesn't I think you can rule it out.

chrisg · Feb 1, 2014

Another thing to consider is that it may well be the water pump impellor has separated from the shaft....

ie the bearings is shot and/or the shaft connecting the water impellor to the pulley run by the belt has broken.

I had a similar thing happen on my S2 many years ago, just leaked water like a bastard but didn't run too hot.

T3rra · Feb 1, 2014

01227 730928 ask for ken. Chilham motor sport, Speak with him about your issue.

Tell him terry recommend you, I believe I get on quite well with them.

There based outside off canturbury in chilham there's normally a least one 944 in there and the rest are Porsches

Andy 944 · Feb 1, 2014

Or try Cliff/Steve at Porsche Nine Engineering, Marden TN15 9QX, more info on their website.

My early 944 is having belt/roller issue dealt with at the moment.

Eldavo · Feb 2, 2014

Using the Occam's Razor principle - have you recently changed the coolant and filled it to max when cold? That would cause it to overflow back to a sensible level.