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I should start by saying that I understand some stuff about cars, but I'm not really fluent in the language of the mechanically inclined, so I tried to find an answer in the faqs and forums, but not totally sure I get it.
I bought this 740 turbo two months ago. About a month in, the radiator hose from the overflow reservoir burst. I had it replaced, but the mechanic said it might be a blown head gasket, although there are no other signs of one. He also checked the thermostat, which he said was ok. After he replaced the hose, he told me to check the coolant level in the reservoir frequently to make sure it wasn't continuing to lose coolant, which would probably confirm his suspicions about the head gasket. (Also, one time previous to this repair, he'd opened the cap to the reservoir and noted that there was way too much pressure) Didn't lose any coolant over the next few weeks - until today the lower radiator hose - well maybe it burst, maybe it was somehow leaking at its connection. I had driven about 5 miles, parked it, and when I returned, there was a significant leak. When I looked at the hose, I could see the coolant seeping all around the clamp. I let the engine cool, then added some coolant and brought it home (only about a mile). Oddly enough, it isn't leaking now. I've also thought it was odd that the temperature gauge never went above the middle with any of these incidents.
The mechanic has discouraged me from any more repairs on this car because it has 310K on it - but this would be relatively inexpensive. The previous owner told me the lower hose needed to be replaced, and he included it with the car. I love the car - only paid $300 for it...how likely is it to be the head gasket? What other possibilities are there? Anything I could check for myself - both cheaply and with very limited knowledge?
Thanks so much!!!
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