Radiator loosing fluid, no visable leak


  #1  
Old 03-06-03, 06:36 PM
snowranch56
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Radiator loosing fluid, no visable leak

I have a 96Ford Ranger, 4cyl., 105K miles. It recently started loosing coolant, but I can not find any leaks. Put a new radiator cap on, still loosing fluid. Top radiator hose gets hot, bottom hose stays cool. Radiator cap cool after 1 hr drive home. Temp on gauge stays in normal range. No fluid at weep hole on pump. Heater hoses hot. Thermostat changed 35000 miles ago. Any suggestions? Clogged radiator?
 
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Old 03-06-03, 06:59 PM
D
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If your losing coolant and can't see it run a compression check and see if you need a head gasket
 
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Old 03-06-03, 11:52 PM
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Yep, check the head gasket
 
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Old 03-07-03, 05:53 AM
Joe_F
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Yup. A shop can use a gas analyzer to check for HC in the coolant and advise you as noted here.
 
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Old 03-07-03, 07:40 AM
snowranch56
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Thanks for the suggestions. I'll check pressure this weekend. But I've check the oil for water, gas mileage is the same as it has been for the past 105K miles, engine runs like a champ. I would think a head gasket problem would show more symptoms.????
 
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Old 03-07-03, 07:40 AM
Joe_F
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In early stages, no.
 
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Old 03-07-03, 04:07 PM
SpiderGear
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Have you noticed any white smoke coming from the tail pipe on start ups or while driving???

Have you tried removing the rad cap when cool and then start the engine. Watch for bubbles forming in the rad cap hole or coolant being pushed out. Also the coolant could be leaking into the exhaust caused by a blown headgasket !! Like the others have mentioned!!
 
 

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