Toyota Radiator Top Edge Leak

TOYOTA
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LEMIEL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
After noticing that my radiator was smoking, I found that there was coolant on the top of my radiator which is now dripping down the grill as well. Though it does not drip to the ground, coolant is slowly accumulating at the bottom of the shell of the car. Would replacing the radiator be the simply solution to the leak, or should I look elsewhere? Thanks for the help.
Feb 27, 2006 at 7:23 PM
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FISHERMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 937 POSTS
check the radiator cap first..,.
Mar 1, 2006 at 1:30 AM
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LEMIEL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The radiator seems to be leaking from all along the top edge. The cap is not leaking, and neither is the overflow, or any of the hoses. While the engine has yet to overheat, a majority of the radiator grill is wet with coolant, and is smoking. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.
Mar 1, 2006 at 6:06 PM
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FISHERMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 937 POSTS
if its leaking from the top gasket you should take it to the radiator shop, those radiators are made off some kind off plastic with fiber once are broken the only way to fix them its replacing that section and the seal.

three sections top, bottom and the center grill
Mar 2, 2006 at 1:17 AM
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Suggested Repair

Check the radiator cap first. If the leak is along the top edge and the cap, overflow, and hoses are dry, take the radiator to a shop to replace the failed top plastic section and its seal.

Conversation Summary

A Toyota owner found coolant on top of the radiator, wetting the grill and smoking, with coolant collecting in the lower shell but not dripping to the ground. The cap, overflow, and hoses were not leaking; the leak ran along the top edge. The expert advised checking the radiator cap, then having a radiator shop replace the failed top section and seal on this plastic-and-fiber radiator.

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