Mystery Coolant Leak (by ac compressor)

[MattL]

So after replacing all my radiator hoses and thermostat + gasket a couple weeks ago I'm noticing a small drip coolant leak that I'm having the hardest time tracking the source.

The AC compressor seems to be where the coolant likes to begin (red arrow) and then drips onto the lower radiator hose (green arrow), pools, then drips on to the ground from there.

I've cleaned up the area (somewhat) to attempt to track this down but would like to know if anyone has experience with this sort of thing?

My first thought was the drip was coming from the thermostat housing but there's no sign of an coolant around that area. My only other thought is water pump. After purchasing the vehicle 50K miles and 5 1/2 years ago I've never changed the pump out.

Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[flintknapper]

Check the weep hole at the bottom of the water pump.

IF it is leaking slightly...it wont be apparent if your fan (or forced air at highway speed) is blowing it back on the engine and other components, but shortly AFTER parking the vehicle, if you clean that area (wipe it down) and then check again about 30 minutes later, you'll likely notice where it has dripped straight down.

Replace water pump if that is the case.

 

[Dave 2000]

The pump seals are at their best under pressure, when cool remove the rafd cap and check the water pump area a little later, think finger on top of straw full of milk.

Regards

Dsve

 

[Elsie Inn]

@MattL what ever came of this leak you had? I’m chasing some coolant near the AC compressor right now.

 

[MattL]

@Elsie Inn, it ended up being the A/C compressor. The "coolant" looking stuff was actually a dye added prior to me purchasing the vehicle and I was confusing it with coolant.

I purchased the Denso NP471-1166 compressor and took it to my mechanic for him to install along with a new A/C Receiver Drier and recharge.

I hope you're able to track down your issue!