FixVault

Hydrostatic Lock

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:

Do not attempt to run engine. Severe damage could occur.

When an engine is suspected of hydrostatic lock (regardless of what caused the problem), follow the steps below.

Fig 1: Negative Battery Cable
GC0139402Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  1. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable (1).
    Fig 2: Oil Fill Cap & Engine Cover
    GC0143807Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  2. Lift the engine cover retaining grommets off the ball studs and remove the engine cover (2).
  3. Place a shop towel around the fuel supply line Quick Connect Fitting to catch any fuel that may be under pressure and disconnect the fuel supply line. Refer to FITTING, QUICK CONNECT .
    Fig 3: Air Filter Assembly
    GC0132938Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
  4. Disconnect the intake air temperature (IAT) sensor (5) electrical connector.
  5. Loosen the air duct retaining clamps at the throttle body and the air cleaner housing and remove the air duct (4).
  6. Disconnect the make up air hose (MUA) (2).
  7. Remove the air cleaner housing retaining bolt (3).
  8. Remove the air cleaner housing from the vehicle.
  9. Inspect the air duct, air cleaner housing and the intake manifold to make sure the system is dry and clear of any foreign material.
  10. Place a shop towel around the spark plugs to catch any fluid that may possibly be under pressure in the cylinder head.
  11. Remove the spark plugs. Refer to SPARK PLUG, REMOVAL .
  12. With the spark plugs removed, rotate the crankshaft using a breaker bar and socket.
  13. Identify the fluid in the cylinders (coolant, fuel, oil).
  14. Make sure all fluid has been removed from the cylinders.
  15. Repair engine or components as necessary to prevent this problem from occurring again.
  16. Squirt a small amount of engine oil into the cylinders to lubricate the walls. This will help prevent engine damage on restart.
  17. Install new spark plugs. Refer to SPARK PLUG, INSTALLATION .
  18. Perform the Engine Oil Service procedure. Refer to Engine/Lubrication/OIL - Standard Procedure .
  19. Connect negative battery cable and tighten nut to 5 N.m (45 in. lbs.).
  20. Start the engine and check for leaks.