1990 Honda Accord radiator fluid leak, cause unknown

113,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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RBLESS84
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
So, I replaced my valve cover gasket. Easy job to do once I took it all apart and looked at it. I had to actually pry it off with a prybar and scrape some of the old gasket off(made sure i didn't leave debris in there). however, I now have an insanely slow leak of coolant where the top radiator hose connects to the engine directly below and to the left of the valve cover.

the leak is coming from where it connects to the engine, not a hose(replaced hoses and upgraded radiator in '07).

I'm just looking for a name for this part, and perhaps how serious this issue is. I'm still letting my rtv cure so I haven't started the car up yet to see if i start puffin white smoke out of my exhaust. should I refrain from testing out my new valve cover gasket until I resolve this slight leak?

EDIT:
I have discovered this is my "Water outlet gasket". Does this indicate water pump failure, or did I perhaps crack the very old gasket by hammering and prying on the valve cover? My newer question in a nutshell is this: How do i know if anything more than a replacement gasket is the culprit?
Mar 6, 2010 at 4:24 AM
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MATHIASO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,209 POSTS
Either it is the thermostat housing outlet.Because the top radiator hose is always connected to the thermostat housing, the lower radiator hose is connected to the water pump. Thermostat housing outlet. Use a pair of pliers to compress the spring clamp, then slide it up the hose and disconnect the hose from the housing.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_0900c1528005f41e_1.jpg

Remove the nuts/bolts securing the thermostat housing ...


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_0900c1528005f41e_2.jpg

then remove the thermostat housing..


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_0900c1528005f41e_3.jpg

Once the housing is removed, the thermostat can be removed from the engine


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_0900c1528005f41e_4.jpg

Using a putty knife, clean the gasket mounting surfaces. If the thermostat is equipped with a pin valve, be sure to install the thermostat with the pin facing upward. If you think it is your water pump, here is the location


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/46384_0900c1528005f452_1.jpg

Inspect for signs of seal leakage or deterioration. Note: small amount of weeping from the bleed hole is normal. (see diagram).
Jan 2, 2020 at 12:11 PM
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