Author Topic: Passenger side coolant leak? (Read 2591 times)

aaron31182 · « **on:** February 23, 2007, 07:59:17 PM »

I'm somewhat worried. I noticed a small puddle of coolant under the passenger side of my 318 today. At 171k I'm pretty sure it isn't the profile gasket but is there a easy way to check? It looks like the coolant is running down the front of the engine from underneath the thermostat area. Should I just assume it's the t-stat / pump and replace them this weekend?

individualist · « **Reply #1 on:** February 24, 2007, 05:13:14 AM »

From the way you are describing it, the t-stat housing could be the culpret, bad gasket or loose bolts maybe. Run your finger around the housing and see if there is any coolant in that seal area.

sheepdog · « **Reply #2 on:** February 24, 2007, 12:03:47 PM »

Could be a hose, water pump, or water pump gasket as well.

The most likely culprit though is the rad. hose or the right side tank if it is that far over to the right. Could be as simple as a loose clamp, the cold has done wonders to my car this year.

aaron31182 · « **Reply #3 on:** February 24, 2007, 09:50:56 PM »

Thanks, I will check all of that out. If anyone is looking for a cheap source for a 32mm thin wrench for the fan clutch, check out a bicycle shop. It's called a headset wrench and looks like it will fit perfectly. Only $10.99

RED IS 91 · « **Reply #4 on:** February 25, 2007, 07:08:57 AM »

Quote from: aaron31182;20102

Thanks, I will check all of that out. If anyone is looking for a cheap source for a 32mm thin wrench for the fan clutch, check out a bicycle shop. It's called a headset wrench and looks like it will fit perfectly. Only $10.99

I used vise grips

1991 E30 M42 · « **Reply #5 on:** February 25, 2007, 03:33:06 PM »

I used a big Crescent wrench and a hammer.