I have a 1998 454 4x4 Artic Cat ATV. I went out to use it and noticed 12" puddle of anti freeze and when I went to clean it up I noticed it was really thick for coolant. It started ok but spit and sputtered and back fired the whole time until I shut it down. My first thought was it's the head gasket. I didn't see any signs of a head leak. I'm not even sure how the puddle of coolant / oil mix got on the floor. Any Ideas ? appreciate any thoughts.

 

Cracked block?

 

Water pump failure

 

I hope not,. really expensive

 

Zrock
Not much experiance with ATV engine's, A failed water pump would allow coolant in the crank case? any way to check the water pump? thanks for reply

 

If it's similar to my pump their is a seal that fits between pump and engine. If that deal fails fluid could go both ways.. rebuild kit is cheaper option

 

Thank You for your help, i'm going to try that its only $17.00 for a rebuild kit. Looks like a good place to start

 

If we had pics of where the oil is we may be able to help better... this is just a guess

 

Just wanted to get back with you and Thank You for your help, It was the water pump oil seal. I would never found that, I had no idea there was a seal between the oil and water there.
Appreciate your help

 

glad you got it fixed