1999 gmc suburban k1500 5.7l 124,00 miles -- Leaks engine coolant on down hill slope only

Question

I replaced the radiator because I had visible leak from the fins. I also replaced the top radiator hose. The bottom hose is only about 2 years old. Had the system flushed about 1 year ago. The water pump was new 1 year ago. After I replaced the radiator I hosed off the engine. I live on a hill and if I park engine down there will be a tiny puddle overnight, in the morning. It seems to come from the water pump area, so I replaced both bypass hoses to the waterpump. When the engine is hot, there are no leaks, no spraying etc. But I can smell the coolant around the engine area. The reservoir doesn't leak. The heater hoses and the heater core are too far away from the problem area. If I look under the engine there will be coolant on the front by the timing cover and on the harmonic balancer.

The used car dealer I bought the truck from 50,000 miles ago replaced the intake manifold gasket due to an oil leak in the rear of the engine. Do you think the Gasket has failed to seal when the engine is cool, but seals back up when hot?

Coolant temps run significantly cooler with the new radiator,

Any Ideas. Thanks

Answer 1

The intake gaskets are notorious for leaks! I've replaced many with under 50000 miles over the years. It is possible that they are leaking. and the front of the gasket is in the area you describe.Have your shop pressure test the system to check.Look for any type of scale on the front of the engine,especially near the intake. Good luck.I hope you find what you're looking for.

Answer 2

Go back over all the hoses and check them for being tight. a loose hose can leak overnight when cooled off. It may be leaking while it is warm or in another posion, just you have seen the leak this way.

Answer 3

have you tried looking under the thing with a light to see if you can see any wet spots coul dbe that you left a hose lose.. could be yes its been known to happen is why i say have a look