2000 4runner 3.4 radiator pressure

[John elway]

Hello everyone, I am new here and I am curious about something that you guys might help me out on. Ok I recently purchased a 2000 4runner with a 3.4. The truck has been well cared for it has 124000 miles and the timing belt, pump, radiator, spark plugs and such were done at 100000 miles and I spoke with there mechanic and he said the vehicle was well cared for all it's life. Ok I drove it 220 miles back home and it drives like new, the only thing I did not check when I purchased it was the radiator fluid. Well this morning I checked it and it was full like it should be so I started it with the cap off just to see and within 15 seconds the fluid rose to the top and started leaking over like there was pressure in it. Now it did not shoot out or anything but slowly rose to the top and then leaked over the neck. Now just from what I remember hearing is that it could be a sign of a head gasket. I checked the oil cap, dip stick, coolant over flow and so on. It all looks perfect and is don't overheat or leak or anything. My question is if it is normal for that fluid to be like that seconds after start up? I did let it get to operating temp and with a towel took off the cap and it had built up enough pressure to shoot some fluid but after the cap was off it looked pretty still and I did not see any air bubbles. Any response would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[BrianSD_42]

I don't know about that ...

But if you are concerned about a head gasket and you are buying a 15 year old car ....

I'd recommend you spend the $50-$75 to pay a mechanic to do a compression test. Be sure to ask for the #s.

 

[John elway]

Yes I know I purchased a 15 year old car, that is why I did all my homework as far as history goes and if there was a mechanic I could take it to this weekend or even monday I would but I can not so that is why I am asking this forum considering there are a lot of people on here with the 3.4 I imagine it would not be hard to figure out if there's does the same thing instead of being directed to a mechanic like common sense would tell you.

 

[fourwd1]

That doesn't sound abnormal, when you start the engine the water pump starts pumping.

 

[fourwd1]

Also going to move this to the 3rd gen section for you.

 

[Ask10]

That doesn't sound abnormal, when you start the engine the water pump starts pumping.

This.

Although immediately on startup mine doesn't do that (277k, original motor), so if you suspect headgasket leakage, try a little autozone radiator tester if you're worried. The guys at the counter will help you with how to use it.

Personally I wouldn't worry, if you didn't overheat on 220 miles of driving and there's no other indicator, I really doubt you're going to see trouble soon.