Coolant odor when AC running
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6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Coolant odor when AC running
1990 F150 Lariat XLT, 5.0L V8, 4WD, 5-speed: when i turn on AC i immediately get odor of what i take to be coolant; truck is not overheating, engine always runs cool, no coolant loss, AC works fine; heater hasn't worked in years (in Hawai'i, so kinda don't care), no wetness on passenger side floor . This just started a few days ago, but is so obviously different - i've had the truck for 32 years, so know all the sounds and smells.
Any ideas what's going on greatly appreciated. And, PS - this truck is the single best tool i've ever owned. Aloha!
Any ideas what's going on greatly appreciated. And, PS - this truck is the single best tool i've ever owned. Aloha!
Cargo Master
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,190
Likes: 620
You've probably got a heater core weep. There's literally *zero* way for the air path or refrigerant circuit to mix with engine coolant. Other than something leaking in the heater core, if you're getting a coolant smell with the A/C on.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 119
Likes: 5
I had a similar situation with my '91 7.3, on a road trip. Made it home and immediately determined it must be the heater core, so ordered a replacement (not as good quality as original). Old core showed no signs of leakage, so I eventually pressure tested it and it was good. My leak ended up being one of the hoses at the connection nipple, but the leak ended up on the inside of the firewall, creating that unmistakable stench.
So check (and maybe replace) your hoses before replacing a core. Coulda saved myself time and money if I had been more diligent in my inspection.
So check (and maybe replace) your hoses before replacing a core. Coulda saved myself time and money if I had been more diligent in my inspection.
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