coolant overpressure maybe and leak....

Darnit ..... Defender td5, X reg, 220,000 mls...

Had a new AMC head at about 140k, but for at least a year I've regularly had to top up the coolant, white/pink deposits round the filler cap and some of the hose joints....and quite 'rigid' hoses. Hmmmm

Now I've got a mystery drip under the nearside of the engine - clearly coolant after even a short run. Seems to be running out under the mount for all the power steering pump and idlers etc., then dripping off the power steering hose, onto the tie-rod, then onto the ground.... Not exactly emptying the header, but I wouldn't travel any distance without a litre or two of coolant on hand.

So, my questions:-

I'd be astonished if the AMC head is cracked, but any other reason for pressure in the system other than gasket...? It was lovingly installed on a beautifully prepared block, with precision torqueing of bolts etc, but maybe just not good enough?

And, I can't think of any coolant hoses/junctions low down near that PAS pump mount other than the gasket itself - or any better ideas..? Unless its seeping round from the 'thermostat' housing set up, but apart from the white/pink crud there, it seems less than 'wet'.

I think I'm putting off the inevitable ..... am I?

Any thoughts gratefully received (preferably relevant). Cheers, A

water pump is driven from rear of pas pump

Well, didn't know that - thanks as always JM, will look for leaks around that.

Meanwhile the pressure symptoms not good.....? Cheers, A

Have you had your cooling system pressure checked?

Will do OSD - prob get a new pump on there first as that seems most likely source of the major drip, then address the pressure after that. The top hose is pretty rigid once hot....... Thanks for all the guidance chaps. A