LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) Discussion topics related to the flagship Lexus LS430

Coolant leak from back of engine

Old 06-30-14, 06:36 AM
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DonMolina
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Default Coolant leak from back of engine

Hey guys, need some help here. I searched around but I don't seem to find something relevant to my specific problem. My 2001 has been leaking coolant for a while now. About a month ago I first realised it after temp picked up after some traffic. I got home 3 min later and I had to fill in more than a liter of coolant.

Ever since, I'm looking at the levels every time I'm using the car (just bought a motorcycle, so not a lot of driving with the Lexus ). Long story short, I'm losing about half a liter per week or so. Last weekend I went to France with the girlfriend, didn't use the car till Friday and I filled in a little less than 0.5lt.


I've seen damp patches under the car, and I got under there to check everything.



After removing the plastic undercovers, I saw that the front was bone dry. I saw the steering rack dripping, and it was coolant coming from over it. The quantity is too small and the space too confined to see anything else more clearly.

So I'm asking anyone that might have a clue. What in hell could be leaking back there? All tubing is fine, thermostat cover isn't dripping, and there doesn't seem to be a leak in the radiator. I didn't pressure check, but there are no marks anywhere at that area and it was completely dry.

What is there in the back that could leak?
Old 06-30-14, 09:00 AM
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Bocatrip
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You need to start by pressurizing the system and check it then. There are many coolant hoses and connections on our cars.
Old 07-01-14, 05:32 AM
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DonMolina
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Originally Posted by Bocatrip
You need to start by pressurizing the system and check it then. There are many coolant hoses and connections on our cars.
True, but I have the leak when the car is stationary and cold, and I've seen drips but nowhere near the front coolant hoses or the radiator. Everything comes from further back, and it's dripping on the steering rack.

What is above the rack that could leak coolant? That's basically my question


Edit:
Could it be the freeze plug? Does anyone have a link with schematics/drawing so I can see where it is?
A Toyo Do-It-Yourself page used to show diagrammes but not anymore for some reason...

Last edited by DonMolina; 07-01-14 at 05:48 AM.
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