98 K-1500 losing antifreeze

**CharlieP** · 12-08-2007, 05:01 AM

My 98 K-1500 is losing antifreeze it is not going on the ground or into the oil. I have already replaced the intake manifold gaskets about 2 years ago also the water pump and all of the hoses. when under the hood when engine is hot you can smell the antifreeze but you just can't see where it is leaking from. any suggestions? Truck has 121,000 miles.

Thanks
Charlie

**GaryL** · 12-08-2007, 07:54 AM

Check the radiator cap and radiator itself. Could be a leak that's too small to puddle, but sprays out and evaporates.

**MrShorty** · 12-08-2007, 10:20 AM

The first thing I would do would be to put a cooling system pressure tester (you can borrow one from Autozone) on it and pressure up the system cold. As GaryL noted, sometimes these leaks are so slow that the coolant evaporates before you have a chance to see it. Pressuring up the system cold will allow any external leak to drip or puddle somewhere where you can see it.

**div4scpro** · 05-09-2009, 09:48 AM

my 97 had the same problem and finally found the culprit, especially if you smell antifreeze as if it was leaking on the hot engine. The hose that goes into the top of the front right, passenger, side of the engine is only held in with a plastic snap clip and is sealed by one or two O-rings, you can buy a replacement clip and holder at any of the auto stores, you dont have to replace the hose. Most of them come with the fitting that also threads into the block, just use caution to remove the old fitting and use sealant when you thread the new one in. remember, the clip just snaps in.

**Jimmiee** · 05-09-2009, 10:37 AM

Don't forget to check the transmission fluid. It's uncommon nowadays but your transmission cooler is inside your radiator and coolant can seep into the transmission if the cooler cracks open. Sometimes it's a very small leak and only happens hot. You will see evidence on your transmission dipstick and the ATF will turn into a strawberry milkshake. <don't drink it!>