cooling system

[robertson]

coolant not being pulled back into radiator when engine cools. coolant level in overflow bottle stays same hot or cold. small loss of coolant ( 3-4 oz.) from radiator after use. new radiator new cap. 96 corolla with 135k not overheating. anyone out there seen that?

[toyomoho]

Check for air leaks in the coolant system. The system needs to be able to hold pressure to draw in and force out the excess fluid into the overflow tank. Might be the radiator cap, the hose between the radiator and tank might also be plugged.

[robertson]

thanks , checking for leaks is next step but beyond my ablity,so mechanic is next. aloha

[Flashmn]

I had that same issue... it was the head gasket (but I knew it).
It would suck in air from the cylinder and because its lighter, it wont suck in the heavier water from the reservoir.

[robertson]

mechanic i just spoke with on phone also said head gasket and asked if water or smoke was coming from tailpipe. there is no water or smoke. can head gasket be slightly leaking and car not showing any obvious symptoms except no coolant transfer between overflow and radiator?

[blb]

Originally Posted by robertson

Can head gasket be slightly leaking and car not showing any obvious symptoms except no coolant transfer between overflow and radiator?

Yes, although most people don't notice until the coolant level in the radiator goes below the point at which the car will start to overheat.

[Flashmn]

yes, my headgasket didnt have any other problem, except for fluid loss. However its not very healthy for the engine.

[robertson]

ok toyota nation now i can make an informed decision, mahalo