I have a 01, with about 160k on it. I have replaced the heater core twice already, and the second time changed the water pump and timing gasket. Well, I have had a small leak again for a while, took it to a shop (not my first choice of places, but oh well), they replaced a hose that they said was old and that was the cause of the smell and leak. I still noticed the leak, and today pop the hood and see coolant all over the passenger side of the engine compartment. At this point, I have no idea whats wrong, or why the heater core (I am assuming that is the problem this time as well) keeps going out on me. Any suggestions? I am taking it to a shop I trust on monday (they are the ones who changed everything last time, and for a good price).

Ill take a pic if anyone thinks that will really matter. But I don't even know where the coolant is coming from.
http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/v...g/IMG_0479.jpg

Edit: I am sure this has been covered before, and I searched, but didn't get much.

 

Where did you get the heater cores from? What material are they made of? Have you ever replaced the radiator cap? My only other guess is that it is building to much pressure, however there should be a by pass that will negate high pressure. I could be wrong. Based on the picture it could be either the heater hose, intake, or head gasket causing it to leak in that spot. My best advice is to pressure test the system and see if it holds pressure. You can rent a testing kit from the parts stores.

 

well the pic doesnt really help out but i will just toss this out there...

i replaced a heater core and upon connecting the hoses i ripped the inner lining of hose and it would spray out once pressure built up.. i tightened the clamp and it slowed to a drop maybe once a week not much but over time it will work its way back to a bigger gap and spray..

pressure test it see what happens... or top coolant off and drive around the block one time let idle with hood up and watch for a leak

 

That Doesn't look like it is from the heater core. Check the line from the water pump to the heater core there should be a metal hose connector there it may be leaking from there. Have you tried bringing the engine up to temp then watching for leaks, you should have to bring the engine up to 2-2.5k to get it to leak.

 

my only guess was that it was somewhere higher up because of puddle in manifold heat shield... but then again that stuff comes out and gets everywhere

 

Ain't that the truth.

I second the motion for checking the hose coupling on the line from the intake manifold to the heater core. It looks like your coolant puddle is right above where it should be. Either that, or the freeze plug behind the motor mount on that side....

 

probably not heater core.
water pump, freeze plug, timing cover or hose.

the leak might be dead in-line with the wet spot, or it might be slightly forward and blown back by the fan. i don't see any wetness up high. looks like maybe water pump pulley height.