Ok I've had my mind on other things lately and today as I was removing my non functioning r12 a/c compressor. I just happened to see that my overflow reservoir was empty. So I decided to check my radiator. It didn't have any noticeable coolant. I could smell it but that doesn't really tell me how far down empty it is.

I haven't noticed any noticeable leaks. The radiator cap seemed ok and didn't have evidence of leakage.

All the hoses seem fine.

Should I get some antifreeze and just top it off for now? I will be getting an all aluminum radiator in a couple of weeks. Or should I flush the system now and start fresh, then change the radiator when I get it?

 

If you're in a place where you don't expect to freeze or boil to badly, use water, and check it daily. See how much it goes down, how far it goes down, and how fast. That was my first sign Pablo's head gasket was gasping it's last.

 

Ok, I see that "Pablo" is your '86 1-ton.

I live in New Mexico. At the moment freezing isn't a concern, but blistering heat sure is. So should I use regular antifreeze to top it off and monitor it like you said? I imagine if it goes low rapidly I may have to change the head gasket?

 

See how far down it leaks. See if you can find where it's going. Fill it up and then put clean cardboard under to see if there are drips from a tell-tale spot. Look at the oil for signs of it turning gray-milkshake. Check your spark plugs too to see if some look cleaner than others.

Maybe it's a slow thing that you can manage for now, or a hose or plug or fitting that can be fixed. Maybe not.

If you need full protection, carry extra coolant at the full strength mix, and use it when you top off. I just used water for a while, because May in Maine isn't too demanding.

 

Thanks guys, upon further investigation I may have found the culprit.




I rechecked the radiator cap and spun the rubber and noticed that. That crack was tucked under the little flap so in my haste I didn't notice it at first. I may have had a slow leak through that. I went ahead and topped it off with distilled water. It took about a half gallon.

I'll be heading out to get a replacement for the cap tomorrow. I have already checked my oil and it is not milky. Actually the oil is still golden which is probably a good sign about my oil changing consistency. This pickup only has 80k on it.

Anyhow I'll be keeping a close eye on this whole coolant thing from now on. I've also done a bit of research and found that people recommend using Toyota Red coolant on these trucks. If all lasts well when I get the new radiator I'll do the flush and radiator install all at the same time.

 

Nice problem to have, compared to the alternatives.

I use the low toxic stuff, so critters don't drink it.

 

So far so good. My level has stayed normal after a full day of driving and a new cap.

I do want to thank you guys for your help. In reality it could have gone either way. Your advice helped me prepare for some of the uglier possibilities. I am good with tools but I've never really done much engine work. I am an automotive painter/bodyman that is the kind of thing I know. This engine stuff I'm still a novice at.

 

I concur