I have a 98 F150 4.6. It suddenly got hot going up a hill. I had it towed in. The water pump, thermostat, and radiator were replaced. Then driving it 2 miles it suddenly got hot again. After refilling the radiator, I see water streaming off the crankshaft pulley cold. Could the new water pump be leaking or could this be a freeze plug leak in the vicinity?
Best thing to do if you suspect a leak would be to pressure test the cooling system. Use a cooling system pressure tester and apply pressure that of your radiator cap relief pressure(about 15 psi). Leave the pressure tester attached for about 15 to 30 minutes and see if it looses pressure. If it does, then you know there is a leak and since the system is under pressure, you should be able to examine the engine compartment and on the floor and see exactly where the leak is coming from.
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