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Coolant Leak

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  #1  
Old 06-07-2009 | 11:26 AM
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Default Coolant Leak

Hey everyone, how goes it? So here is my problem, a couple years ago I was told I had a small radiator leak by a gm mechanic but it was not too serious. Now, here I am, and for the first time ever my 01 extreme is getting hotter than usual. I checked the coolant and it was bone dry. I refilled it and let it run and put some cardboard down to see where it was leaking. I dont see any visible leaks in the hoses. The majority of the fluid seems to be coming from the drivers side. I can not figure out where it is leaking from. I am not too car suavy. I am assuming it is the radiator? Am i wrong? Is there a better way to pinpoint my problem? i see some fluid spayed under the hood near the air filter thing. thanks
 
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Old 06-07-2009 | 11:30 AM
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If you cant find it on the hoses it's probably the rad. It sprayed all over the hood probably from the fan. You might try some radiator stop leak. Another option...kind of a rig though...would be if you can find where it's leaking pinch the vertical tubes above and below the leak with a good set of needle nose pliers.

BTW checked the overflow bottle and the hose to it?
 

Last edited by oisinirish; 06-07-2009 at 11:31 AM. Reason: Question
  #3  
Old 06-07-2009 | 12:06 PM
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so I just filled her up again and it immediately started leaking. It all leaks from the drivers side down. My pic helps show it. Looks like a possible crack? Is this th wholde radiator or just a tank or something? thanks

If the coolant leak is at the connector then you will need to replace the radiator. It has plastic side tanks and any leaks are fatal. These tanks are only rated for 16psi caps so they are not repairable effectively....not like the old metal radiator tanks.

thanks
 
Attached Thumbnails Coolant Leak-p6250113.jpg  

Last edited by rriddle3; 06-07-2009 at 01:33 PM. Reason: CONSECUTIVE POSTS
  #4  
Old 06-07-2009 | 01:34 PM
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Replace the radiator.
 
  #5  
Old 06-07-2009 | 01:50 PM
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The tanks are replaceable. However due to the aluminum tank tabs being very break prone, its just easier and cheaper to replace the radiator. If you have new tanks put on they will leak. I used to work part time at a radiator shop and I have seen them do this.
 
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Old 06-07-2009 | 02:35 PM
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I agree. New radiator best move at this point.
 
  #7  
Old 06-07-2009 | 05:24 PM
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for the advice and sorry bout the double post
 
  #8  
Old 06-08-2009 | 09:41 AM
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I agree. Best thing is to replace the radiator.
 
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