fatdudesurfin

I've installed a new water pump, radiator, cap, and all hoses all snugly onto my old 3vz engine. I believe I did an excellent job and there are absolutely no leaks in these parts whatsoever. Yet my coolant level in the reservoir is consistently low. Meaning I'll fill it up, and a few miles later, its down to the same spot.

Could this be just the fluid working itself throughout the engine? what's up with this?

Thanks for all help. If what I said was a bit vague, let me know and I'll explain it more thoroughly

CynicX

check your oil...if you see coolant you'll know...

jimbo74

im afraid i would have t oagree with that.... if everything is tight and you are sure there are no external leaks in the cooling system, your headgasket has probably failed internally...

KevyWevy

it could also be air bubles in the line. turn the heat on for a while and drive around and it may help to get them out more.

fatdudesurfin

this will sound pretty dumb, but how will i recognize coolant mixed in with the oil?

fatdudesurfin

forgot to ask..

how/where is the best place to check for this? i'd like to avoid draining the oil

rah1420

It'll look like a chocolate milkshake rather than simply brownish.

Nic

Your oil may appear to be white in coloration too. I guess it depends on how much is getting in the oil.

Blair

Just look at your dipstick.
If it looks like a milkshake, you got some problems with your head gasket

DH6twinotter

Have you checked your heater hoses? One of my hoses had a slow leak and I was having to top off my overflow tank every month or so.

Also, could just be a leaking resorvoir.

Well, that's my $.02.
Have fun all.
Daniel

jimbo74

he said nothing leaks and he keeps on having to add coolant.....

Nic

As suggested, it may just be your reservoir. Forget about relying on your reservoir for a little while and check it from the radiator and see if the level is getting lower in it over time. Check it when cool, of course.

I know it seems I can never keep coolant in my reservoir/overflow.

YotaJunky

I agree. Turn on your heater to the highest setting to ensure that you have no air trapped in the system. If this is the source of the problem, then the air pockets will work itself out. Also, do you know how much coolant you put in and how much the owner's manual says to put in?

Troy