02’ Coolant Leak

Ok so I just bought this beautiful 1st Gen 2002 Taco about 3 weeks ago. Everything is running like a top on it. I noticed that the coolant reservoir was draining every 3-4 days and can’t figure it out. It definitely smells like coolant when it starts up and is running. I then found a steady drip (about every second) of coolant under the radiator on the passenger side. I’m no mechanic so I have no idea if it’s a cracked tube or what? Please help with diagnostic and solutions please and thanks

 

Looks to me like the radiator is leaking

 

Your upper hose/inlet appears to be dry and the lower hose is on the drivers side. I’d say you’re in for a new radiator.

 

The PLASTIC drain petcock is in front of radiator where your arrow points to. Drop the pan and check if it's loose or cracked there. Good luck.

 

Welcome aboard

 

New radiator and you’ll be good to go

 

As others have said, probably the radiator. I've gotten about 15 years out of the original on two Gen 1 V6 auto 4WD trucks, so you're likely due.

Welcome to TW. Nice lookin' truck.

 

I replaced mine in 95 3.4L with this one 1 yr ago. No issues so far.

https://tinyurl.com/rr259y7

 

Make sure the PO did not try to hide the leak with some magic coolant additive. I he/she did then swap that radiator and flush the system thoroughly.

 

Thanks for input everyone. Any good advice on where to purchase replacement radiator and is this something that I can do on my own? I’m mechanically just ok. Videos I’ve seen don’t make it look TOO hard but I want to be sure before I get into it... @Wsidr1 ? @Black DOG Lila @RysiuM

 

A pressure tester is your friend likely the Radiator but good to know for sure .

If it is within the budget upper and lower hoses as well

 

No clue where to get the radiator besides Toyota (only option for me). Fingers crossed my 25 years old radiator still holds strong.

 

I bought one for my '03 2.4L at AutoZone for about $120. In addition I purchased a new radiator cap. I'm not much of a mechanic but with the help of a friend I was able to install in about 2 hours. Just like you I watched youtube videos. So far no problems.

 

By the way, @RynoTaco904, there's an ongoing Gen 1 step side thread. I'm sure folks watching that one would love to see your truck.

 

It's not difficult. I think most people have more trouble getting any trapped air out of the system as opposed to replacing the radiator. You can buy an elevated funnel kit that will help prevent getting air trapped in the cooling system. Not required, but might be helpful.

Heater core is the number one place for trapped air after the system is drained. If, after you replace your radiator, you hear gurgling in the cab, or your heater isn't putting out hot air, you have air trapped.

https://tinyurl.com/shytvr9

 

Welcome to the Forum!
I'd check the hoses at the clamps just because. But, I think a new radiator is the best course of action.
This guy is a member here, and has helpfull
video's. "Timmy The Toolman"
The one below is on Radiator & Transmission coolers.
https://youtu.be/2nVbwe2t2T8