Smell burning anti-freeze but no signs of a leak?

DESHAUN1

MEMBER
2006 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
99,000 MILES

What should I do if I smell burning anti-freeze but no signs of a leak and what should I do if my anti-freeze in my reservoir is a rusty brown color? I just changed my water pump and hoses due to a leak. I removed the radiator and fan to check for cracks and there were none.

5 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

It is burning somewhere either from an internal leak, which is burning in the cylinder or leaking externally and burning off the manifold. I suggest inserting a dye into the system and having a shop use an ultraviolet light to find the leak.

As far as the rust, it happens from lack of service. You need the system power flushed to get rid of the junk. What ever you do, do not use sealer as it will complicate the diag process.

Roy

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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 2:08 PM

DESHAUN1

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Ok thanks. As far as flushing my system how would I go about doing that myself?

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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 2:21 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Power flushing involves using an acid in the system and a machine that does it for you. Not for someone at home. At home, all you can do is drain and fill but you leave too much in the system untouched.
Call around for a radiator shop and get a bid.

Roy

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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 2:33 PM

DESHAUN1