Coolant leak

[Dougs Scoob]

Hi guys.

Last weekend after washing the car I noticed the coolant level was low. Topped up and after a 10 min run noticed steam from the radiator somewhere. Going to have a proper look this weekend. Is there anything I should be looking for apart from obvious - pipes, make sure theyre sealed properly, etc? And is there any easy way of finding a leak?

Ive got a hawkeye sti spec D.

Thanks for any advice.

[arch]

Have a look at the end tanks on the radiator, they are plastic and known to burst. Other than that run the car get it hot and start searching.

[Dougs Scoob]

Meant to say the timing belt was just changed so may be that a pipe wasnt fitted back correctly or something.

[arch]

mmm water pump?

[supremeweb]

Made a hole in the radiator when it was removed?

[Dougs Scoob]

Ok. I had a good look this morning.

Whether this will make a difference or not I don't know. Was hoping someone would enlighten me.

I noticed one of the fans was unplugged.(The fan nearest the coolant expansion tank). Thats the side I saw the steam last week.

Also noticed that the rubbber pipe that comes out the top of the coolant tank connects onto a small metal black pipe above the radiator wasnt fully pushed onto it. Its not got a clip to hold it on. Don't know if it's meant to?

Thats all I noticed. Took the car out for a spin and left engine running for 10 mins on my return. No steam. No leaks that I can see. Both fans opperating ok. The end tanks on the radiator looked slightly wet at the bottom but that may have been due to wet road conditions.

Would the fan being unplugged cause steam?

Thanks for any feedback.

Edited February 5, 2011 by Dougs Scoob