Smelling coolant

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Mar 21, 2008 | 04:35 PM

Rick32

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Smelling coolant

Ok so I havent had this problem with this truck yet so I dont remember what causes it. I own a 98 f-150 2x with the v-6 my heater wouldnt work right so I checked the coolant level. It was a little low. So i leveled it off. Now when I run the truck for any extended period of time, i smell antifreeze. No puddles or nothing. Just a smell.

Mar 21, 2008 | 06:26 PM

fire240

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From: baltimore

Sounds like your heater core is going up.

Mar 21, 2008 | 07:23 PM

Rick32

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update

Dad (long time Ford owner) Says it might a water pump. Cause I only smell it outside of the truck. No puddles. Dad says if it only leaks under pressure, (when I drive it often) the heat of the engine will evaporate the coolant leaving that "sweet smell" with no puddle any thoughts? Or should I bow gracefully and change the stinkin pump? lol (hes done this before lol)

Mar 21, 2008 | 07:32 PM

fire240

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From: baltimore

You could always pressure test your system. That might show where your leak is coming from. You might be able to rent a pressure tester from your local auto parts store.

Mar 21, 2008 | 07:57 PM

Rick32

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Thanks for the input Ill definately check before I buy parts

Mar 22, 2008 | 07:15 AM

Joe Finn

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From: DC

Coolant smell inside the cab is usually a heater core. Smelling it outside is a good thing, because the heater core is a PITA to change.

Mar 23, 2008 | 04:02 AM

bokker

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From: uk

hi, is there a cloud behind the truck when running, coolant smell from the exaust. the 97/8 had problems with coolant entering the cylinders because of lower intake/timming case gasket failure. see the v6 forum for further help. good luck bokker.