I have a 1996 Grand Cherokee, 4.0 L, 6cyl, it appears that there's fluid leaking from the engine block as evidenced by a build up of grime from the seal down (nothing above the head gasket). Naturally I'm assuming it's a blown gasket but I'm wondering if it could be anything else. I've never had any major problems with the engine, it's now got 130k miles, but I've noticed the oil level is a little low and I've had to add coolant recently although I haven't seen any evidence of oil in the coolant or visa versa and no white smoke from the exhaust.

If it is a blown head gasket is it something a DIY'er can/should attempt? What tests should I perform to be certain it's the head gasket?

 

it could be a gasket that is starting to seap. napa makes a block tester that we use at work and have had good results with it. it comes in a bottle and another that has fluid and you set on the rad. neck with it running and if combustion gets in there it changes to a yellow color, not sure on the price

 

I found it on NAPA's site (part # BK 7001006), it's only $42.99. I have a NAPA store nearby so I'll pick one up. Also I was going to clean the block and the rest of the engine compartment to see if that can help me identify anything else that may be going on. Can you recommend a good engine cleaner?

Thanks

 

It is a jeep it is always going to leak no matter what you do. Greetings from souderton!!

 

Gunk foaming engine degreaser, NAPA has it.