Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 98 12-valve radiator/cooling system leak

[UhhhDawson]

my 98 12-valve 2500 4x4 has a pretty significant cooling system leak. i was hoping that someone on here might know something instead of paying $80 for a "diagnostic" at a dealership! anyway, the leak drips steadily from the bottom right corner (if you are looking at the truck from the front) of the radiator. i cant tell whether its coming from the radiator itself or just a broken hose or valve in that area. i would appreciate any help or advice. thanks!

 

[tp0d]

I believe there is a drain petcock exactly in that corner. Not sure tho, as I use the hose method to drain mine. Someone else will chime in, I`m sure. .



Have you stuck your head under there to see what it is?



How many miles on this truck? Possible the rad is just worn out... ? what do the fins look like



good luck



-j

 

[KYOUNG]

your radiator may be leaking past the o-ring on the tank on that side, the tanks are generally aluminum and crimped on there. . radiator shop says it is hard to reseal!!

 

[McLaughlin]

Check the drain petcock real carefully. It is on the lower right hand corner of the radiator. My daughter's 96 was leaking very similar to what you are describing. The o-ring around the petcock was bad causing the leak. The o-ring is replacable if the center of the petcock is removed.