Hey guys, got a tricky coolant leak I noticed a few days ago. Coolant appears to be collecting at the bottom left (driver's side) area on the radiator, where it mounts to the cooling fan. Since this is just a bracket with a bolt in it, I find it strange that coolant is only visible here. I'm unsure if one of the hoses from above could be leaking down onto it - I haven't noticed any wet spots on them. I will check tomorrow and see if I can pinpoint where the leak is coming from, but it seems to only start flowing when the car is running and stop leaking when cooled off.

I've attached some pictures for reference.

Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

The OEM radiator consists of two plastic tanks on each end crimped to the middle aluminum cooling coils/fins. The primary failure of the OEM radiator is a failure of the plastic tanks resulting in a leak either from cracked/broken plastic or the crimping failed to the aluminum cooling section. That is where you would need to look by disassembling the items blocking your view to get a good look at the tank. Might be helpful to also just run the engine to build up coolant pressure and the leak location should become apparent as it looks to be leaking fairly heavy. You will need to replace the radiator with either an OEM or better yet an aftermarket full aluminum unit. the latter should be much more durable. Instruction on replacement can be found within the forum "How-Tos" selection at the top of the page and/or have your most reliable Corvette shop perform the work for you.

Other possible areas to leak would be at the upper hose on that end of the tank or the 3/8 coolant lines that run along the top of the radiator, especially at the plastic "T" just before it goes underneath the intake filter housing. Common for that plastic to crack & leak. You can find 3/8 x 3/8 x 1/4 bronze or stainless steel "T"s at the local hardware stores or online.

Until then, should you continue to drive it, pay close attention the the level of coolant in the reservoir tank and replenish as needed to ensure you do not run low and possibly overheat the engine.

Good luck...GD