1997 Explorer XLT SOHC Coolant leak.

[Scoopscool]

Alright well here's the situation, I know that I've got a leak in my radiator but it's not too bad. But, I've realized a new leak lately and I pressure tested it and it seems to be coming from the back somewhere I can't exactly pinpoint it but I'm thinking it's possibly one of those back freeze plugs. I was just wondering if anyone has any more knowledge on this kind of leak or anyone that has had this sort of leak and has pinpointed the problem. I know it's not too specific I just found the one on the radiator and the one like in the middle straight in the back but down about half way.

 

[RangRayy]

check the two hoses running into the fire wall on the passenger side (looking into engine on the left). these go into your heater core check those lines for wetness on them and follow them back to the motor. looing for any sing of wetness. thats my opinion on where to look.

 

[Scoopscool]

Yeah there's not water coming into the car itself those would make it leak into the car if it was going to the heater core I'm pretty sure, thanks though.

 

[sidneyhop]

I had a problem where it was leaking from a freeze plug that corroded through on the back of the drivers side head. That will happen if the original coolant from the factory is mixed with off the shelf anti freeze. Becomes corrosive. If your phone has a camera, try taking a few pics with it squeezed back there. Thats how I found out where mine was coming from.

After removing it with a long screwdriver and a pair of pliers I didnt have enough clearance to drive a new one in squarely. The local shop said they would have to pull the engine or remove the head to fix it...F that! I ended up fixing it with a
$3 rubber expandable freeze plug that expands once in place by turning the bolt on top.

Worked like a charm.

 

[Scoopscool]

Yeah I might have to go try that camera trick you've got. I went and searched around today and got a pretty "new" radiator for about 60 bucks, better then $250 minimum for one. I don't really see too much leak from the back when it's running. But I'll have to look further into it I'm thinking freeze plug. Thanks though.