Radiator Emptying, No leak..?

[mistersnowman97]

So I asked a question on another thread, but now, I have some variables.

So, I was having issues when I see the engine overheat, there's a coolant leak from an unknown source,(big one too). SO, I started using water to not waste any more coolant and quit pouring it all over the ground. Anyway, I wanted to see wat is up, so I tried to find the source of the gurgling sound I got after I shut it off. It sounds like its coming frmo two places. 1. The back of the engine (I dunno) and 2. The radiator.
So i filled the radiator with water and started the engine with the cap off to watch the water. So I started it, and after about a few minutes, the water slowly left the radiator and never came back. THere was no leak I could possibly find, so I am pretty baffled. In addition, I'm kinda nervous about all this gurgling. Someone was telling me I could've blown a head gasket. But I dont think thats it because I havent had any smoke coming out the exhaust. Oh yeah, and did i mention, the head gasket it ONE MONTH OLD?

Gosh, I dunno what to do...
Need some help please

 

[fourwd1]

You should pressure test the cooling system.
You can borrow/rent one from most parts stores.
It connects to the radiator in place of the cap, and you pump it to pressurize the system.
Then watch the gauge. If it starts going down you have a leak. Chances are you'll be able to see it too, be sure to fill before starting.

 

[92-SR5]

Does the coolant smell like exhaust? If so it is indication of a head gasket failure.

 

[mistersnowman97]

Does the coolant smell like exhaust? If so it is indication of a head gasket failure.

nope smlls like regular ol coolant

 

[92-SR5]

Well that's a good thing. Pressure test would be my next step like fourwd1 suggested.

 

[fourwd1]

The next question is does the oil look normal ?

 

[RiFF RaFF]

The next question is does the oil look normal ?

Agreed - if your oil looks like a chocolate milkshake - there's your answer.

:nod:

 

[bill_runner]

Agreed - if your oil looks like a chocolate milkshake - there's your answer.

:nod:

i agree with doing the pressure test as well.
3.0? ...maybe the head gasket was replaced incorrectly? is it running like dog @$$ or is it fine 'til it overheats?

edit : ALSO! if you are hearing gurgling AFTER the engine has been shut off, it could be that your radiator cap is bad and your coolant(water) is boiling into the reservoir. when the reservoir over fills, it dumps the excess coolant and you have coolant loss. sometimes it's the simple things!

 

[bill_runner]

oh, and maybe you replaced the HG on a warped head, which wouldn't do you any good and could produce the same symptoms.

 

[Love4myRunner]

I vote HG but if your oil isnt milky that might not be it. I am confused about the fact that you havent seen any liquid on the ground after the water test. Do you smell coolant coming from the engine bay? Did you check to see if its wet around the water pump or coolant hoses? How fast does it drain out of your radiator? I assume you checked the top and bottom of your radiator. Check the sides of your block with a really good flashlight. If all else fails pressure test it.

 

[mistersnowman97]

Agreed - if your oil looks like a chocolate milkshake - there's your answer.

:nod:

Nope, no milkshake, just regular ol oil.

I've been doin some more investigating. I've been finding that when I'm idling in neutral and I rev it up to about 2500-3000 i hear the gurgling again, then it disapates.
Im thinking theres some air in the system. I'm gunna burp it tommorow and try and eliminate some more possiblilties