I'm a new member and this is my first post. I apologize in advance if this is the wrong section. Jeep is a 98 with about 260k miles. I've only owned about 5 months. Driving today all of a sudden there was a strange grinding noise when idle and present when driving. In a hurry I got it home and opened the hood and there was oil everywhere. Anyone know the issue? All hoses and parts seem to be intact.
Engine rattling and oil everywhere
- Thread starter JMIZZAY
- Start date
are you sure its oil ? that 4th pic looks like it could be the water pump. check your oil and antifreeze to be sure
LONGJP2
TJ Expert
Oil (normally) doesn't flow anywhere except inside the engine (and filter).
You need to confirm what the liquid is and where it's coming from.
When was the last time you checked the fluids?
Fluids were checked a few months ago. It's hard to see exactly where it's coming from, but most of the liquid is present here. Possibly the front differential gasket is shot and spraying liquid?
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Murf926
TJ Enthusiast
I'm with @tr21triton. Looks like it might be a coolant leak. Front to back from at least the tie rod, back. Check radiator, hose clamps, water pump...
But, if you heard an abnormal mechanical sound, water pump would be my first guess.
But, if you heard an abnormal mechanical sound, water pump would be my first guess.
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The rattling is likely the water pump falling apart and yes, like the others indicated it looks to be coolant.
Thank you all for the help and suggestions. Most of you sounds correct when I was investigating. Going to start with the water pump. Thanks again!
and certainly do several flushes and at least one with thermocure as that coolant looks really dirty and rusty.
LONGJP2
TJ Expert
You need to check fluid levels much more frequently than that, like weekly, especially with an older, higher mileage vehicle.Grab the fan when its NOT running and feel for it wiggling or loose. Tat would be indeedy a sign of bad pump bearings.
will do. Last question. Should I buy just the pump and gasket? Or for this old vehicle, should I get the inlet tubes and stud as well? I would assume replace it all? Thanks
If you're going to replace the pump, I suggest replacing the thermostat and all rubber hoses too. I’d also consider replacing the fan clutch, serp belt and pullies while you have things apart. Use OEM quality parts like Gates, MoPar etc.
