I have a 1992 cadillac eldorado V8, My engine coolant leaks, when I drive and the coolant temp reaches 250 F it starts to overheat, steam comes out. What can I expect to be the problem when I take it in to a mechanic. Is it a blow head gasket or does it need a new water pump? If so What am I looking at for the price most likely

There's no way anyone can tell for sure without looking at it! Usually head gaskets don't leak externally, so it could be anything from the waterpump to the radiator or even a hose leaking.

I have a 1992 cadillac eldorado V8, My engine coolant leaks, when I drive and the coolant temp reaches 250 F it starts to overheat, steam comes out. What can I expect to be the problem when I take it in to a mechanic. Is it a blow head gasket or does it need a new water pump? If so What am I looking at for the price most likely

In 1992, they didn't put the Northstar in an Eldorado as far as I know. The Northstar engine is a 4.6L V-8. Your car probably has the 4.9L V-8. You'll probably get better answers by posting this question in the 4.9L engine or Eldorado forums. It does sound like a head gasket problem to me, but it could be a number of things that I don't know enough about to really help you. I hope you find the answers you need. Good luck...

You need to give more info. Where is it leaking from? Have you done anything to diagnose it?

You really didn't give much to go on. Do you have some mechanical skill and tools? If not, just take it in, because there will be some testing and parts changing to do.

You have the 4.9 liter pushrod engine not a Northstar so this is in the wrong section. Head gasket failures on the 4.9 are really pretty uncommon so that's not the first thing I'd expect. The most likely thing is a failed thermostat that's simply worn out and sticking closed.

Some simple diagnosis will determine the problem but it's really not likely to be something too big. Has the cooling system been maintained with coolant replacement every 2-3 years/24-35,000 miles as specified? If not, corrosion damage to the engine and cooling system is possible. Regardless of the problem, when repaired, have the system filled with fresh 50/50 coolant/distilled water and 6 of the GM coolant supplement pellets.

well today I drove it into work and as soon as I got into the parking lot the car overheats & dies on me, including the battery that just shuts off and when I unscrew and screw the battery wire back in the power comes on. but when I turn the key in the ignition I hear a clicking sound and battery goes off again. so I just wait like 2 hours for it to cool down and start it up

You probably have a simple problem, like a bad thermo, or possibly a fan module. maybe even the water pump, but you should get it fixed and stop driving it around like that before serious damage results.

Sounds like you really need to check the battery cables and connections - both at the battery end and at the ground cable attachment to the chassis. Check the battery cables for corrosion or any evidence of internal corrosion of the battery cables themselves. Look for distended or puffy looking insulation on the cables as a sign of corrosion. If the cables can't carry the battery power it will cause the clicking you mention - or it could simply be a failing battery.

Or overheating starter motor. Wouldn't that require alot more amps. When cools it does OK.

I finally got off my butt and moved it. As for the problem, could be many thigns that I know of. Leaky water pump, loose hoses, damaged radiator, bad pressure cap, etc.

ya I took it in and apparently it is the radiator, so I'm paying $512 for a new one

ya I took it in and apparently it is the radiator, so I'm paying $512 for a new one

Aftermarket radiator would be much cheaper. Or you can replace the both end plastic tanks (some $80) yourself if they have cracks. I have done it.