I have a problem that I hope someone can help me with. I have a 1996 bronco, it has a 302 engine, with A/T. A couple weeks ago it started leak just a little, but steady. I took it to a shop and had the radiator pressure checked. The test showed a very small drop in pressure over a expanded time frame. No leaks could be found and the repair man suggested that I drive it a bit and keep an eye on it.

I replaced the cap with a new one, flushed the radiator, and replaced the coolant. The leak was still there. I replaced both the upper and lower hoses, think I saw some coolant around the bottom hose. I also replaced the spring clamps with new screw clamps. I have not seen any leak since doing this.

Now, here is the problem, My truck does not run hot, the temp guage goes up in the normal zone, then drops back down, just like it is suppose to do. This is even with me towing a small camper. The problem is that I have to put more coolant in the overflow tank every few days. The raditaor itself is full just the overflow tank is empty. I know that the coolant is suppose to go back and forth to the radiator as needed, but is it normal to keep losing the coolant. I have been tempted to use one of those stop-leak additives, but have been told to use them in an emergency only.

I want to make sure the truck is very dependable and do not have to worry about it breaking down on me when I drive it. I am stumped as what to do next, I have tought about replacing the radiator, due to the truck having a 100,000 miles on it. I am sure it would not hurt, but would it help. I am very greatful to any help or advice anyone can give me. thanks again

FLETCH

 

my coolant on my '93 f-250 litteraly comes out of the top of the resevoir. When I drive it on the freeway only, I rarely refill the resevoir but when I take a trip through the pasture or hills I find that it has come out from around the resevoir cap.

My mechanic says "just keep it filled, don't let it get low." Go figure words of wisdom.

 

The leak test didn't check the hose from the radiator to the tank, or the tank itself. And a small leak on a hot engine or radiator evaporates before you notice. The old-timers (no offense ) used pepper to stop small leaks - just add ~1/2tsp to the radiator and the small flakes will plug any tiny holes. Also, check the heater core inside the dash - its leaks are supposed to drain where the evaporator core drips from, but they usually go into the R floorboard.