Engine Coolant Leak Somewhere In The System

[Tjj]

Read the text at the bottom first

I was told by my father that the engine of the 1986 mustang used to over heat a lot. He suspected that it was the heater core leaking and causing the car to lose coolant. So I managed to remove the heater core and there was no leak. I then looked to find any leaks on the water pump and the thermostat housing, I saw yellow residue on them and a damp area next to the water pump (which are the pictures). Could that be old 20 year old dried up coolant?

The car doesn't run yet by the way

 

[90sickfox]

Yes it could be. ( Long answer )...These motors are known for front timing cover and water pump gasket leaks.

I warn you ahead of time that when ( and if ) you decide to do the water pump, the studs or bolts are likely to break.

My advice to you is to order water pump bolts before attempting repair ( brand new bolts are better than old ones, anyway ). While you're at it... might as well throw a new timing chain and a cam in it, too. But that calls for intake and valve cover gaskets as well.

Short answer.....yes, that could be 20 year old antifreeze dried up....or rat pee. Lol

 

[mikestang63]

Could you have posted any worse pictures? lol

The first thing you should do is go to Autozone or Advanced Auto Parts and rent t coolant leak tester. Pressuize your system to 16lbs. The pressure should hold there for at least 30 minutes. look for leaking coolant.

IF it is you water pump and/or timing cover those are the two most common places. As stated, those bolts are known to break off eaily. I would spray all the bolts with PB blaster and let it soak in for at least a day. Coat the new bolt threads with anti sieze.