Coolant Reservoir

BigCope923 · Jul 23, 2016

I have a 1990 C1500 Silverado 5.7L V8. I notice that when I fill up the coolant reservoir the coolant disappears after about 250 miles of driving.

So I have a few questions.
1. Am I supposed to fill up the reservoir with coolant?
2. Does the coolant not staying in the reservoir indicate that I have a problem?

I cannot see a where coolant is leaking anywhere and the truck isn't running hot. Could definitely use some input. Thanks in advance.

GL1500 · Jul 23, 2016

I apologize if you already know this but stranger things have happened. Your reservoir has 2 marks on it (often difficult to see). High mark is for hot engine level, low is for cold. If you're filling it to the correct line and your coolant is disappearing it would indeed indicate a problem. If it's not leaking externally you may be leaking it into the crankcase and/or cylinders via a crack or blown head gasket. Have you checked your oil? If it looks muddy or has foam//rust on the dipstick or filler cap you likely have coolant in the crankcase. If you notice any white smoke, excessive moisture from the exhaust or the exhaust smells sweet when running (assuming it's coolant and not straight water), you likely have coolant leaking into the cylinders.

Best wishes,
Steve

Justin S · Jul 23, 2016

Have you checked the actual radiator level? If that has been full the whole time and you keep adding coolant, you most definitely have a problem. If there are for sure no external leaks, from a hose, radiator, water pump, etc, there is a good chance the intake or head gaskets are going, and refer to the above post!

Coolant Reservoir

BigCope923

Newbie

GL1500

I'm Awesome

Justin S

Truck Hoarder

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