a couple of days ago my coolant level started to drop very slightly (about 0.5" from the main rad and 1-2" from the expansion tank) - this is after about every 400 mile of so
my temp had remained constant the whole time, but I fear this could be the start of a problem.
at the same time a squeaking has started from the engine, not unlike a loose belt - except not as highly pitched. All the belts have been checked for loosness and all ok. The noise is the same whether idling or accellerating
could these two things be linked? - (#2597) skippy, 30 Mar 02

yup, sounds like head gasket. I presume there's no visible leaks? As the other thing might be a water pump starting to go, the water getting onto the timing belt... - (#2600) david miller, 31 Mar 02

i'm hoping it's the water pump
there is slight seepage dripping onto the drive-shaft - it might also explain the whine - I guess it has a bearing of some kind - (#2608) skippy, 31 Mar 02

I just changed my Head Gasket after steam in exhaust and bubbles in rad plus water loss.
Then lost more water than before, but head leak fixed OK. I finally traced it to the water pump, but only after inspection after removal. Pump looks & feels OK. There is two small holes moulded into the casing. The lower hole (where the water leaks out) is at the back of the casing & can't be seen when installed. Look for water dripping on the RH engine casing below and behind the water pump housing (I look just to the left side of the air-con pump). Before the leak became totally obvious (pouring out), I could not see any leak or trace it.
New pump should be in stock this Wednesday for £46. I'm also changing the Cam Belt £16. - (#2612) Ray, 31 Mar 02