I have a 2004 dakota V-8 with 102,000. Lately I've been losing coolant. My mechanic whom I've know for almost 35 years and also a trusted friend. Have not been able to find any leaks even when the truck in on his lift. I have had a misfire code on cylinder 8.We cleared it out and has not came back. I still have to add coolant ever few days, but not much (maybe 3-6oz).
He is suspecting I may have a head gasket leak around the 8 cylinder and the coolent is going out exhaust.According to him and his experiance this could be a very expensive repair(maybe 1,000-2,000) since to do job right would replace hose, waterpump etc. He said since this is a double overhead cam motor there could be move things to replace due to high mileage.Any would be better handled by a mopar dealer.
Any body have any input. One suggestion since I have been thinking of trading this might be a good time.
thanks,

I'd have your mechanic borrow a Stant radiator pump tool/kit & get it hot & pump it up to 15 lbs then let it sit overnight & see if the psi drops more than a lb or 2. that is procedure on a very minor leak but with the amount you are losing I'm sure you wont have to wait overnight before the gauge starts dropping a significant amount. If no external coolant leaking then as said it has to be internal