Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Losing Coolant...

[MBatson]

This is kind of a three question in one deal... .

After about 400 miles the reservoir will go from full to the "add" line.

I dont see any coolant leaking anywhere. I did, however, notice that the little 3/4"? coolant lines are looking rather "aged". Is it possible for the coolant to be blowing out of the top of the resorvoir, through that little hole?



Secondly, I bought a couple of those little coolant hoses from the dealer. I then went to Advanced auto for the remaining hoses. But, the hose from there is basically heater hose and is not as firm or thick/reinforced. Is heater hose quality sufficient? Or do I need to go back to the dealer and spend 20 bucks a peice for the remaining coolant hoses?



Thirdly, When I went to drain the coolant and start replacing the hoses I noticed that I couldnt find the drain petcock under the radiator. I have the factory Dodge service manual, but it doesnt actually show a picture of the petcock. Is it on the passenger or drivers side? Is it visible from underneath?



Thanks for any help,

matt

 

[Signal73]

petcock is on the driverside near the intercooler outlet.



maybe check around your heat exchanger on the passenger side of the block below your turbo If you have a automatic. Some of those lines could get old and dry rot. Also check the 2 hoses going into the heatercore on the passenger side above the turbo. If those leak a little and spray onto the exhaust manifold it will evaporate before you see it on the ground.

Im sure others will be along with other spots to look at.

Let us know what you find.

 

[telliott]

be sure you dont have a bad head gasket, you could be leaking coolant into the oil system. Have you checked your oil? coolant will usually show up on the dip stick if that is the case.



I think heater hose type hoses would be fine. Afterall, heater hoses are made for coolant to be run through them anyway.

 

[MBatson]

I thought I had my sig up, but didnt go through I guess.

yes, I have an auto.

I think the hoses under the turbo your talking about are those little 3/4" ones that I was noticing may be hard to get to. They are definitely a little old.

My plan was to replace all the hoses and new coolant and see what happens...



I didnt see any sign of coolant in my oil...



I'll post up if I find the problem.

thanks