Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Lost Radiator Coolant

[fleahead]

I had my heater on yesterday, and suddenly notice it went from hot air to cold air. Just as suddenly the temp guage started climbing. Fortunately, I spotted a truck repair garage and pulled in. The radiator cap was cold and there was no coolant to be seen inside. The reservor tank was empty also. We filled it up with coolant, and I went on my way with no further incident (yet). I had not noticed any fluid coming from the truck, the truck runs fine, and the temp guage has been acting normal. I'll admit I've not been checking coolant fluid levels, and none has ever been added. I checked it today after about 200 miles since the incident and the level is still full. Is is normal to lose coolant over time?



(I should have did a search for this subject before posting this. I see there are several threads already on this subject).

 

[DSiemens]

You might have a slow leak from the headgasket. Mine was slowly leaking, it eventually got worse. Leak was near thermostat housing.



Dan

 

[bmoeller]

Hopefully, none has made it to the crankcase and just an external leak.

 

[DSiemens]

Luckly, mine was external. It was a good time to install PDR ported head. The new gasket had much more red goopum around the water passages then the old. Look on the side of the block for an antifreeeze stain. My leak was so slow that the coolant evaporated before it could reach the ground. Drove it for a while before I changed the headgasket.

Dan