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

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?

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

Replace the radiator.

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.

I agree. New radiator best move at this point.

thanks
 

for the advice and sorry bout the double post

I agree. Best thing is to replace the radiator.