coolant loss help plz

[Jay29]

Hi guys

As per title seems I'm losing coolant from expansion tank I topped up the level to max mark and the overflow pushed some out

After a week driving the level is a shade below min mark where it stays is this normal or am I being paranoid

Looked at rad can't see a leak

Looked at bulk head pipes can't see a leak

Can't see water pump although pump replaced at 70k now at 120k - whats the lifespan ?

Also I'm getting no coolant light come on

When I release the cap the level goes back to max?? Am I being paranoid??

Any advice much appreciated

Thanks

Edited 30 September, 2014 by Jay29

[KenONeill]

If the water pump had gone, you'd be getting more symptoms of overheating than that, like the temperature gauge actually moving past 88C or so.

 

This sounds like you're getting a bit of system pressurisation for some reason. When you open the cap, do you hear a hiss sound? It'll be a short one if you do.

 

Worst case, this is very early stages of HGF, so maybe get a coolant exhaust gas test done.

[SKYHAWK]

head gasket

 

same as mine then after a welling it gave up completely 

[Jay29]

Yes when I open the cap I get a hiss but is it not ment to when hot??

Level returns to normal when cap is open then it appears no coolant is lost

I have a block check leak tester which detects exhaust gases in the coolant so I will check and report back

Hope its not headlift :(

What is the cost of HG replacement? I already have ARL headbolts. These can go in at the same time

Edited 1 October, 2014 by Jay29

[SKYHAWK]

headgasket cost me £30 head skimmed and pressure tested £80 and if you pay a garage you are looking at £200+ labour

[KenONeill]

Yes when I open the cap I get a hiss but is it not ment to when hot??

Level returns to normal when cap is open then it appears no coolant is lost

I have a block check leak tester which detects exhaust gases in the coolant so I will check and report back

Hope its not headlift :(

What is the cost of HG replacement? I already have ARL headbolts. These can go in at the same time

Well, yes you should get a hiss if you open the cap with the engine hot, but you're also risking a steam (actual steam, not hot water vapour) 3rd degree burn if you do that! 

 

Also, you do not check coolant level on a hot engine!

 

Gas check the coolant for peace of mind, but I now think the problem is that you're checking the level on a hot engine and expecting it to be the same as on a cold one.

[Jay29]

Oh right il let it cool off and have a check...

My leak tester fluid has gone off I'm gonna order some more and test for exhaust gases before I dip into my already empty pockets :(

[howellj1989]

There was a small split in the pipe going to the heater matrix. Replaced the pipes all good now, 182 quid gone though.