I have coolant leak

[coach k]

Just below the thermostat ( not the housing itself but about two inches lower) coolant seems to be leaking/seeping. Not enough to drip on the ground but enough to make the front of the engine wet and gooey. Its a 2004 5.4L. I was getting ready to change the plugs when I noticed the goo on top of the #5 plug.

 

[coach k]

Is this a problem others have seen? I was hoping this would be a DIY fix. I would love to hear some suggestions. I can't tell where its coming from.

 

[ExplorerTom]

On first gens the intake manifold is known to crack and leak coolant in that general area. I thought that was fixed for the 2nd gens.

 

[docraymund]

Clean the leaking area well so you could see where its coming from. Start the engine and have a strong flashlight so you could see better.