What do we have here? - Coolant Show

[angusbn]

1989 535i

Minor coolant show on the engine block below the intake manifold - notice what seems to be a trail of coolant flowing from above the oil dip stick.

No more than 1/4 oz - I wipe it clean once a month or so.

Perhaps the water pump gasket, tstat housing?

Any ideas?

Blair...

[Ferret]

That looks like it's coming from the thermostat housing area somewhere...

...also your engine block reminds me of ships that've been in the sea 40 years! Well rusty!

[angusbn]

Thanks for noticing. It has withstood Canadian winters for 20 years so goes to show you how durable it is.

Hey Billie...

...also your engine block reminds me of ships that've been in the sea 40 years! Well rusty![/QUOTE]

[angusbn]

Found it!! Upper rad hose that clamps onto the tstat housing. The clamp is loose but I can't tighten it enough to stop the minor leak.

Should I replace this upper rad hose part # 11531722682 or cross my finger and live with it??

[mclark1983]

You should replace it along with the clamp also. It may or may not get worse if you let it go.

[Jeff in MN]

1989 535i

Minor coolant show on the engine block below the intake manifold - notice what seems to be a trail of coolant flowing from above the oil dip stick.

No more than 1/4 oz - I wipe it clean once a month or so.

Perhaps the water pump gasket, tstat housing?

Any ideas?

Blair...

radiator. I had a very similar path on my 535 and thought it was coming from the t-stat too. Turned out fluid was running along the bottom side of upper hose over to that area under intake #1 then dripping on the head and making the same path. Wrap a rag around that t-joint in the hose and see if it stops. Rag should start getting damp.
Good luck.

[Rus]

When you remove the hose, I bet you'll find large amounts of mineral build up on the thermostat housing. If you clean it up, the new hose should seal much better. Just my $.02