Water pump vs head gasket

[tjs4x4]

Ok, so I've been checking my exploder for water leaks, as I am losing water now. I don't have that chocolatey colored oil that is common in head gasket leaks, and I'm not blowin smoke out the tailpipe. However, I am having to fill my radiator a minimum of every 2-3 weeks with coolant/water. Its not a whole lot that I have to put in, but its noticeable. The temp guage hasn't moved to hot at all during these times when its low. No visible radiator leaks either. Have replaced the rad. cap twice now.
My question is: is it a water pump failing or a head gasket that's failing? Is the only real way to test it to get a compression test?

 

[doorgunner]

let's hope it's a bad/cracked overflow hose or cracked coolant jug first....or a pinhole in the radiator that causes the coolant to evaporate before it drips on the ground....

 

[tjs4x4]

Yeah. I'm going to try the radiator stop-leak stuff and see if that helps at all.

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Have you actually had a pressure test done of the cooling system?

 

[tjs4x4]

No, that's kinda why I was asking...I am going to find out how much a pressure test will cost me then have it done before I do anything else...

 

[chrwilkins30]

Yeah. I'm going to try the radiator stop-leak stuff and see if that helps at all.

Dont use that junk. Period! It only clogs other parts of the cooling system.

 

[tjs4x4]

WELLL, I had a pressure test done today. They found a leak in the timing chain cover. And they also said my water pump and thermostat need replaced as well. Stealership wants to do that and a Front Crankshaft Seal also, all for only $1200. F*** that. I'll find somewhere else to have this stuff done.
While I have the engine down that far, might as well do a rebuild......

 

[70roadrunner]

the water pump, thermostat, and front crankshaft seal all have to be removed/replaced anyway! they are just trying to "sell you more labor" because they charge flat rate. go to a local mom and pop shop with a good reputation, they will probably fix it for $300! or get a manual and do it yourself for less than $100

 

[tjs4x4]

I am buying the parts and going to have it done locally. I figured the dealership was just trying to make more money on labor charges. They usually always do...

 

[tjs4x4]

Does anyone know how long an engine can go with a timing cover leak before it HAS to be replaced? This is a pretty big job and not sure when I'm going to be able to get it taken care of.