OldLs400

Why would the top of my radiator be soaked in antifreeze after each drive? It looks like there is antifreeze coming out where the hose connects to the top tank. However, the hose itself looks fine. And almost the entire length of the top of the radiator is covered in fluid after a drive.

Does the radiator need replacement, or could it be a small hose that leads to the radiator on the right side of the car (the side with the air filter)?

jaaa

Lots of radiators will leak out the top where the seam is. Plastic only goes so many years/heat/cool cycles before it gives up. Could be the hose too, so look closely.

Superfast1

The top part of the radiator is made out of thermoplastic material & as Jaaa stated, it can only last for so long due to the age/heat/cool cycles. Most likely, there's a crack at the neck of the radiator where the hose is connected to. Here's what you can do: Allow the car to cool off then drain some of the coolant out at a wingnut at the bottom of the radiator then remove the hose & inspect for crack. If the crack is small, you can repair it w/ hi-temp JB or Scotch Weld epoxy. If the crack is too large & it's deemed beyond repair then you'll need to replace the radiator w/ a new one. Good luck.

spuds

Good thing is if you need a radiator they are really inexpensive for this car.

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

spuds nailed it.... "if you need a radiator they are really inexpensive for this car." I replaced my 99 a few months ago...

lextout

Michael88

DO NOT mail order a radiator! Trust me! I returned two in a row due to damage in shipping. It took a month and the money isn't returned quickly either. Do only a self pick up, inspect, and then pay for a radiator. You will be saving yourself A LOT of headaches. Easy replacement job, though.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

I mail ordered a Denso from rockauto a couple years ago and did not have a problem.