Overheated-No coolent-need some advice

[rocket22]

I was driving to work today and the heater wasnt working, and as I was thinking bad heater core, I noticed the temp gauge was on its way to being pinned at H. (check gauge light came on). I did pull over and was able to open the radiator cap since there was no fluid, and was able to refill and the car quickly lowered back to operating temp. I limped it home and noticed I am getting a slow trickle from underneath. What are some techniques to pinpoint the leak? I will be checking hoses and water pump, how do I determine if it is a headgasket?

 

[uptownrockstar]

they have the ink die kits, which is a speical die you put in the coolant that glows bright green. wherever you spot it, thats the leak.

the kits are like $80 or so. maybe less. google "ink die coolant test"

 

[Verno]

Unless it is a minute leak, you should be able to find it without an expensive "dye" test. First wipe off all hoses. Refill again, and with engine running look with flashlight for leaks. You probably have either a broken hose, or a water pump leak. Make sure to check heater hoses! Let us know what you find

 

[marragtop]

Could also be a leaky radiator. Either way, it shouldn't be too hard to narrow down if you loosing water quickly.

 

[rocket22]

how do I eliminate head gasket?

Wouldnt I be blowing out smoke or rough running if it was head gasket?