Red Substance

I was changing my oil and found this substance around the side of the engine. I think it may be radiator related because I have been loosing radiator fluid. What is this and how to fix? After further investigation, it seems as if the leak is behind the exhaust and motor mount last photo. It is VERY hard to see and get to. Thank AL for y ou ur input on this subject

 

Looks like dried coolant to me.

 

Coolant leak. Sadly, the fix could be expensive if it's the plastic crossover tube in the back of the engine.

 

That's definitely a coolant leak. You might try putting a wrench on that nut and tighten it a little.

You could also check to see if it's wet after you drive for a few miles. If so, maybe that's your coolant leak??

 

That would be the oil cooler. Really easy 2 coolant hoses and the big center bolt. Looks like the cooler cracked.

 

Great.. Ty ..

 

Can replace this "cap? (What ever it is called) which might have a gasket be hind it?

 

It might be as simple as the hose clamps for one of the two coolant lines going into that oil cooler. Iirc there is an o-ring in the cap of the oil cooler but it seals for the oil, not the coolant. I would check the hoses first. They get a lot of heat from running under the exhaust manifold so make sure they’re not all cracked and hard as well.

 

The only gasket is an oring on the back that seals the oil. Its like a mini radiator once it leaks it needs to be replaced.
https://parts.olathetoyota.com/v-2001-toyota-tacoma--base--3-4l-v6-gas/cooling-system--oil-cooler

 

Great ty... after further evaluation, it looks like it may be a leak higher. It is behind the motor mount and exhaust from block...

 

I would start by cleaning the area. You can knock off the crust and rinse the rest away. Then start monitoring the area to see if the source is obvious.

 

Thank you to everyone who gave me info on this. It has been advised that it is the head gasket.... $12,000 for a rebuilt engine installed or $5,500 to rebuild mine NOT knowing the heads can be machined???.....