Coolant level

[totalpackage]

Hi guys,
For years I have noticed my coolant level disappears from the reservoir. The level must drop just below it because i can add a cup of coolant and see it puddle on the bottom of the reservoir. I fill it to the proper level and cannot find it leaking. I assume it leaks when driving?? It does not overheat or run hot. I have seen the intake gasket and heater hose issues and some sort of coupling brought up here about the fluid issue. How do i pinpoint where it is coming from? Im not up to par on where some of the components are where the issue may be. Can you guys help me with pics? Its a 1996 LS 4x4.

 

[SunlitComet]

easy and direct way is to add a uv dye to the coolant and track it with a uv light. local stores can sell you the kit to find it.

---------- Post added at 11:00 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:58 AM ----------

the gasket referred to is the gasket between the heads and lower manifold. however sometimes they don't leak externally but internally into the intake runner or block itself. the hose connection mentioned is the coolant hose running from firewall to right forward corner of intake manifold.

 

[God]

Reach your hand under the reservoir and grab the heater control valve to see if it's leaking. Mines leaking again (probably cracked) and I just replaced it a year ago. I guess it's a really common part to fail

 

[SunlitComet]

nope. only when getting damaged from something else or a cheap part. maybe even a hose end this time.

 

[totalpackage]

Thanks, I will check them out and give you an update and pics on what I find.

 

[totalpackage]

Found a drip on this hose. Never noticed before because the fluid blended in with the a/c condensation. It appeared to drip about once a minute....been doing that for years.

 

[SunlitComet]

that is one of the heater hose pieces.