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smelling coolant

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Old 02-18-2012, 02:17 PM
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ok quick recap of issue. over the past couple of months i have been smelling coolant, but no signs of coolant loss. radiator is always full. history of cooling system is- 3 months ago new waterpump, new hoses, 2 months ago new 3 row csf radiator, new thermostat. has one new heater core hose also. i have pressure tested the system and have had no drop in pressure over 45 minute period. it seems to do it as it wants. sometimes i wont smell it, it also does not matter if i have the heater on. this issue is driving me nuts...
Old 02-18-2012, 02:25 PM
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new cap?
Old 02-18-2012, 07:05 PM
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If you're smelling it inside of the cab, the primary suspect is the heater core.

If it's under the hood, there are lots of possibilities.
Old 02-18-2012, 07:30 PM
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It might be coming from a nearby vehicle.
Old 02-18-2012, 07:55 PM
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the heater core is what i was thinking too. guess ill pull it this weekend.
Old 02-18-2012, 07:57 PM
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Originally Posted by jebmccall
the heater core is what i was thinking too. guess ill pull it this weekend.
Ever done one before on the XJ? It's a PITA. I'd try to dig up a thread that gives you a tip or two before digging in.
Old 02-20-2012, 11:10 PM
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Usually when mine smells of hot coolant it is the heater control valve under the hood. The little arm that opens and closes them keep leaking on all the ones I buy been thru 1 a year science 2005
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