what else do I need?

[skater]

Hi all,

Just noticed a small leak at top of radiator ,back home after short trip.
Lost half litre while on drive over about 2hrs.
Topped up, fine over night, experimented idling on drive to warm up a bit
and leak appears to come from where the metal crimps over plastic top,
frontside by top hose.
I'd been noticing a hot smell occasionaly so keep a close eye on coolant.

Have ordered new rad and thermostat for a "proper" fix.
Coolant alarm is next on the list.

Anything else I should/could do?

Thanks.

[apole]

Hi there,

How old are the rubber hoses? They tend to weaken over time and are liable to split, worth checking out. I just had all of mine replaced with new clips as a precaution as one of them was looking old and I'd had one go a while back, luckily whilst it was parked up.

Haydn does some excellent Norma constant tension clips, they worked well on mine so recommend those. You will need new anti-freeze too.

Coolant alarm is a must, worthwhile insurance.

Andy

[skater]

Thanks ,
Was thinking of doing hoses too but having checked them they're not
brittle or bulging so may just keep fingers crossed for a while.

Had been planning to have coolant changed for the winter anyway so
actually it's just as well I hadn't got round to it yet.

[skater]

The coolant level stayed above in/outlet pipes in expansion tank.
How confident might I be that there are no air locks so far?