Coolant issue, possibly WP and TB?

[Keyrunner]

I have noticed that my 4runner has started to sip about half a reservoir tank every two to three weeks. I was ready to tackle the water pump and timing belt in hopes to fix this issue, but I ran my VIN and the WP and TB were replaced at 75000 miles (now at 125000miles). Would this be a waste of time? I have also noticed a ticking noise constant to acceleration which I wrote off to being something in the driveline like a u-joint or possibly exhaust leak. Could these be associated? If anyone has had a similar experience or if this sounds like something else, any help is appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

 

[98OzarksRunner]

If the water pump is leaking you'll have a puddle under your truck. Sounds like you could have a head gasket leak. It might not show up on a compression test or coolant pressure test if it's leaking that slowly, but I'd try both. You can borrow a coolant tester at an auto parts store (e.g. O'Reilly's).

 

[Keyrunner]

I have not noticed any puddles. Thanks for the input. I will run some tests this weekend and see if anything shows up.

 

[LittleCaesar]

As long as your 4runner has never overheated, then I would not believe it is a head gasket issue. It would be running quite rough. But performing a compression test on the engine gives you a good indication of its general health so do it anyways IMO.

I'd check all hoses around the block. Also check around the freeze plugs to make sure none are leaking. Finally check around the top of the radiator and the radiator cap to make sure the latter is sealing for pressure.

Lastly, pull off the top cover for the timing belt and shine a light down to the water pump. The coolant may be seeping out the weep hole. If a non Toyota or Aisin water pump was used, its longevity can come into question.

 

[Keyrunner]

Thanks guys!

Also, non related to my coolant issue, I have noticed after doing some highway driving - typically over an hour of driving and exiting the highway - the truck wants to stall out or shutter at the first couple of stop lights. The 4runner has never ran hot according to the dash gauge and it ran fine on the highway. Once, it completely shut off at the first light I came to, but started right back up and ran fine like nothing had happened.. Anyone else have any issue like this before??