Weird Radiator Issue?

MULTIBURON

MEMBER
2000 DODGE DAKOTA
256,000 MILES

Why would my radiator be expanding. Like it is blowing up like a balloon. It was like this when I got it but is now leaking. I know the previous owner had heating issues but what would cause this?

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Saturday, November 20th, 2010 AT 2:53 AM

4 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Wow! I need you to try something for me. When the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and start the engine. Does coolant spray out of the radiator? PLEASE ONLY DO THIS WHEN THE ENGINE IS COLD.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

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Saturday, November 20th, 2010 AT 3:02 AM

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Sounds like excessive pressure-block and pressure test it-this will tell you something

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Saturday, November 20th, 2010 AT 3:07 AM

MULTIBURON

MEMBER
15 POSTS

I already have been playing around with it. The truck run fine, the heat works. I started to smell anti freeze and noticed this. Currently the radiator is out because im changing it tomorrow but luckily I did pull the cap off with the truck running cold and it is normal. It does NOT spray out of the radiator. The previous owner said that the anti freeze wouldn't go into the radiator from the reservoir so I change the cap once I gained ownership. I also checked all hoses etc for any blocks and there are no issue I can see.

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Saturday, November 20th, 2010 AT 3:16 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Is there a chance that it was damaged from the prior owner. I wonder if he was trying to fill the radiator via the overflow bottle. Regardless, since you have it out, replace the thermostat, and flush out the engine block and heater core. That way you will know the system is clean and there are no blockages as rasmataz recommended checking.

Let me know how things go for you or if you have other questions.

Joe

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Saturday, November 20th, 2010 AT 6:36 AM