Thread: Smell of coolant

if you can smell it - then it's getting out somewhere.....even a very small amount

can be anything from a hose connection, split expansion tank through to core plugs....



what type of engine/vehicle (I assume V8) ? - they all have their quirks

Head gaskets often leak coolant at the front and rear of the engine. I would poke around with a bright torch and an inspection mirror (one on a stick) and look carefully at the head/block joints, front and rear. It may be better to look up from underneath the vehicle when it is on ramps.

I agree, probably a small leak! I had the hose from the expansion tank dribble every now and then. I could not see it but every now and then I'd see a little drop on the garage floor! The tell tale was dust from 4wding in the engine bay sticking to the coolant.

Originally Posted by Keithy P38

I agree, probably a small leak! I had the hose from the expansion tank dribble every now and then. I could not see it but every now and then I'd see a little drop on the garage floor! The tell tale was dust from 4wding in the engine bay sticking to the coolant.

Thanks guys
I have done all that you have recommended, even had it over a pit, it is a 4.6 litre new motor about 50K old. Radiator and hoses have been replaced but I do have a slight leak in the heater O rings inside the car but would not have thought that I could smell that strongly outside

I will just have to persevere and try to find it but it certainly is proving elusive for me and my mechanic.
Regards
David

I have a similar problem at present on my RRC with Thor.
I saw the track was from the LH rear of the motor down teh bellhousing but I cannot see it even with a video scope.

So it is off with the Thor top manifold to have a look.

I suspect it is that the lower manifold has become a bit loose where attached to the head, as it only appears to happen on heat soak when the pressure in the cooling system rises.

It could be the rear of the head gasket , but I think I will burn the car if it is, seeing I have TRS you beaut gaskets and ARP studs.
So you just have to be patient and get under to try and trace the general area of the leak, then isolate it from there.
Regards Philip A

Reminds me that I often find inlet manifold bolts work loose after some time, they are rarely retensioned after assembling a new motor. (especially on a Thor engine!).

I've had near-microscopic leaks before, usually in a hose. They spray a teensy fine jet or misting spray for a short while after shut-down as they need high temp/pressure to get 'out'.

I've had good results using a UV torch and that's what found the leaking seam in my Classic's plastic tank... - Assuming you've got the 'green' coolant. Red does'nt flouresce. Where the spray lands and dries may be far away from the source if the fan is blowing it around.

Basically, they're easiest to catch in the act at night with the UV an/or a tightly focussed bright (white) torch.

Enjoy!

The throttle body heater section is notorious for coolant leak .... worth a check

see last entry on this page (part number #MGM000010K) Jaguar | Land Rover spare parts at British Parts UK | British Parts UK

you can bypass the heater with no ill effects if you wish....