'95 MX3 GS Radiator Fluid Leak

[aPROxSLASHER]

My apologies if this is the wrong section, I'm new to this site.

I just bought a 1995 MX3 GS (1.8L V6) and among a couple problems is leaking radiator fluid from the left front end by the rad and hoses. I've taken a few high school automotive courses but am far from a pro haha. Just wondering if anyone knows a thing or two and could give me a hand. I'm wondering if it's the hoses or the radiator itself. The fluid reservoir is on the far right side so I doubt that's my problem. If someone has a few tips so I can narrow down my problem it would be much appreciated I'm pretty sure it's radiator fluid but then again I could be wrong, I'm going off mainly what the previous owner said. I'm on a tight budget but I'm thinking of replacing the radiator with a new one, and have no clue what I'm looking for to fit perfectly and be the right type etc. Simply put... I'M CLUELESS LOL! Help?

Update: just took a further look with my buddy, looks like the top passenger corner of the radiator is the problem. Should I replace just the rad or the upper and lower hoses as well? And what kind should I be looking at...? Aha a quick good search confused me, so many choices! What is good and cheap?

[mitmaks]

If you need radiator hoses check out ebay or RockAuto.
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/raframe ... type=10222
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BRAND-NEW-HIGH- ... 5e&vxp=mtr

[aPROxSLASHER]

Thanks bud, any specific type I need to look for or should most hoses and rads be fairly similar provided they're meant for my ride?

[mitmaks]

You're looking for one that looks like OEM, so you won't have to cut it, etc. Gates is a good brand.

[aPROxSLASHER]

Sounds good

[mitmaks]

I'd look over the hoses, see if they have any soft spots, dry rotted, kinked, etc. If they're in good condition I'd leave them alone. You can buy decent aftermarket radiator online for under $100.

[aPROxSLASHER]

Aftermarket, meaning not simply an oem replacement rad? I was considering getting one from a wrecker but I'm always afraid of used when it comes to mechanical things.

[mitmaks]

I wouldn't use one from wreckers, never know if it has holes or is plugged up with gunk inside. Unless you really want to take that chance...better save your receipt.

[aPROxSLASHER]

Ya I was suggested to get one at a wrecker but that's not really a chance I'm down to take with my budget. If I gotta buy it I want to buy it only once haha

[Daninski]

Radiators.com They deliver to your door. Mines 5 years old and no problems at all. If you go through their web site they can even set up having it installed. Check them out.

[aPROxSLASHER]

I'll check it out, thanks guys! Anyone suggest simply repairing the hole in the radiator if that's all there is?

[davmac]

In my experience the plastic radiator tank repair kits are a temporary solution. They may work for a short time and will definitely slow a leak down if it is a simple crack in one of the plastic tanks. VersaChem, Loctite, JB weld all offer a version of their epoxy that is supposed to seal the plastic radiator tank. The problem is the plastic used for the radiator tank is tough to stick to and the tank expands and contracts with heat. Use the epoxy repair to buy some time while you save money or wait for your new radiator to arrive, but don't expect permanent repair.

[mitmaks]

Spend $100 for radiator and be done with it.

[aPROxSLASHER]

I think my rad is metal. Not sure, I'll look deeper. And I'm waiting for a job before I insure it so I have time to fix it while it's sitting. I'll still look into a new radiator primarily then. Thanks for all the help

[mx3_ryder]

I have a good used oem radiator I could sell ya. Great shape, no leaks with fans and coolant bottle.