Slow rad leak?

[RythmicCaptain]

So the other day I took a look under my deli and noticed a small damp spot. Upon further investigation I realized that it was coolant. I got under with a flashlight and the source appears to be the right hand side of the rad. I could see it beading up on the lower extremity of the rad housing. The bottom hose is dry, so I dont think its the clamp or the rubber hose. From the topside of the engine, I could see a small gathering of green fluid in the bottom gutter of the rad itself. There are a few small perforations in the body of the rad, probably caused by pebbles, and I assume thats what is causing this very slow leak. Side note, on a cold start the fluid in the rad is full- or very close to full. The overflow tank is mostly empty, but has a little fluid in the bottom. Is this rad shot due to the perforations, or are there any other possibilities? Can it be resealed? So far I havent experienced any overheating issues or anything like that.

[Growlerbearnz]

A radiator repair shop should be able to fix it easily. Usually they leak from the top or bottom tanks where they join the core, and it can be difficult to say exactly where the coolant is coming from. If it really is leaking from the core you might need to fit a new core- in which case it might be cheaper to buy a whole new radiator.

The radiator being full is normal- when it cools down, the coolant contracts and draws new coolant from the overflow tank, replacing any that was lost while the engine was hot. A slow leak results in the overflow tank level slowly dropping, like yours.

I wouldn't leave it too long. Slow leaks have a habit of turning into fast leaks at just the wrong time.

[thelazygreenfox]

RC
Ask the rad shop to check the rad for blockage first b4 repairs . Its an easy hi volume test, takes only a few minutes and could save you a few bucks. Unless the rad has been previously changed there's a good chance it's plugged with rust or (?). Better to find out b4 they start repairs.

Ask me, been there done that.
MD

[ChuckBlack]

Pressure test is the best way to locate a cooling loss!