Coolant Problem - Advice Desired

Hey All! I am new to the forum and hope I am posting in the right place. I am having leak problem with my coolant system on a 1997 Gmc Jimmy. The white tank is almost empty and the overflow where I was told to put my 50/50 mix in is full. A beautiful red puddle sits under my vehicle. The temperature guage in the vehicle does not read past 100. Had some goopy sealant put in but that is not doing the job. Any comments about what may be happening? I wanted to come to the REAL experts (you all) rather than the money hungry ones at some shops.

We have an engineering/technical forum as well as a GMC jimmy forum. I move this to the eng/tech forum, but you may want to post as well in the GMC jimmy forum here: http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=179

In response to your problem...

There should only be one tank. If you are looking at two tanks, one is probably your windshield washer fluid. The coolant overflow tank should be clearly marked on the lid with words like "caution don't open hot" or "engine coolant under pressure". That and the radiator are the only reservoirs for the coolant.

Start looking for your leak directly above the puddle. There will probably be a drop of coolant coming from the leak.

Hello
I'm not completely familiar with your make and model, however, a water pump should have what is called a 'weeping hole'. It's a small cavity located on the water pump's housing which lets part of an antifreeze to escape, indicating pump's failure. If you find that this is the case, it is time for a water pump replacement.
Also, make sure all water related hoses are securely fastened via clamps and are in good condition.
Cheers

Bad For Radiators And Water Pumps.if It Begins To Leak Worse Apon Start Up Than Its Probly The Pump.get A Bright Light Let Engine Run Until Leak Is Present And Find The Sorce Of Leak

ummm... isnt red usually tranny fluid?
ive never seen red coolant.
i'm crazy tho

thats GM DEXCOOL.... its cherry flavored (red)
oh and mix it with distilled water, or youll get some funky goo buildup

I know this may seem like an extreme unintuitive idea....but.....if coolant is leaking onto the ground, you need to crawl under it and see where its coming from.

4.3L are quite famous for external intake manifold leaks, btw. But you want to verify where its coming from before you waste your money