5 replies to this topic

[maccers]

So recently I discovered a pin size hole letting coolant out the radiator. I have replaced this and not losing any coolant now. 

 

I can still smell a strong coolant smell though. I took the matrix apart and checked that its fine. 

 

Is it possible the hoses are allowing the coolant smell to leach out? In a similar way you would smell fuel in/around the boot area from the pipes?

 

Had them on a while now, Mini Spares blue silicone type all round.

 

Cheers!

[sonikk4]

Normally if you don’t have a leak under the bonnet then it would point to the heater matrix.

Can you smell it with the fan off??

[MiniMadRacer]

If you have any sound deadening type material under the bonnot or on the bulkhead that got wet with coolant, and it may be that smelling and passing into the cab. The mini bulkhead has a milion holes for smells to get through from the engine bay

[lsto]

I have a MPI type heater valve fitted, it was weeping ever so slightly where the rod goes into the body. It never leaked enough to drip or make any difference to the coolant level but when the engine was warm it did smell of antifreeze in the cabin. I changed it and problem solved.
Also worth checking the seal hasn't perished on the rad cap if you can't find a leak.

[coopertaz]

gat a cheap pressure test kit and then you can be sure there are no leaks and can also check the cap, just don't overpressure the system! if no leaks then soggy matting or carpets. pipe will never allow scent out without leaking.

[maccers]

Thanks all. Its really odd, I'll have another check on the pipes side of things, see if any tiny holes or splits. I do run the matrix heater all the time, as in there is no heater on / off valve, its connected direct to system has coolant flowing all the time. Acts like a small radiator!! I just get very hot sometimes