Heater core leak ..or not

[Kibokojoe]

Over the past year when ever I turned on the heater I smell coolant. Today I removed the console, dash components and removed the cover on the heater core. Now I can see the heater core but there are no visible leaks. I am running the engine and I have both thermostats set on high. I guess there is a chance it could be leaking on the other side of the core but shouldn't I see coolant dribbling from somewhere. Sure would hate to drop another $200 bucks into fixing something that is not broken. Any suggestions?

[632 Regal]

Over the past year when ever I turned on the heater I smell coolant.

Obvious heater core leak. It dont take much for the smell. On mine it's okay unless I rev the gears out, then it smells very strongly. Defrost doesn't work unless I turn the AC on. I am not going to change mine out until it sprays water on the windshield and my shoes.

[Kibokojoe]

Your gif is great. Are they having a good time on our taxes?

[Tiger]

You really need to search for the leak... it can be outside in the engine compartment. I am in the same boat as you are.

[Jehu]

Could be a pinhole in the core on the back side which you can't see when its in place and mostly evaporates before becoming a dribble.. If Antifreeze is lethal to drink how good can it be to inhale the fumes for a year?

[Tiger]

Gee... I think I have been inhaling this stuff for 9 years.

[Kibokojoe]

And you are normal... right?

[Tiger]

LOL... maybe that's why I am a little bit kooky. Seriously, I do want to get to the bottom of it... I am losing coolant all the time.

[Kibokojoe]

Wonder if there is a drain hole on the bottom of the heater core box?

[Tiger]

Yes, there is.