Initial speed up problem

[archstone]

I am always happy with my 97 Aurora. It has been a great car since I own it and now the mileage is at 180k. You can tell how much I like to drive it. Until recently that it came two problems.

1. Though Aurora still starts as normal like before, there is a lag while trying to takeoff after start, it's kind of lag a little bit before speed up. It feels like almost stall... but never really stall. When I stop at stop sign, it woud repeat the same syndrome again when take off. After a while it is ok.
2. I have replaced the radiator due to the obvious radiator leak. But after replacing the radiator, leak is still going on though a bit slower, at about 1 gallon per 1000 miles. I couldn't detect anywhere leak by visual check. I have no idea where could be the leak? Now I add coolant once for every two weeks. Anyway that I can find the leak technically? The dealer want to charge me $60.00 by just looking at it.

Please give me comments if anyone knows what could be the problems. I really like this car but budget is limited. Hopefully can keep it as long as possible. Any advice will be appreciated.

[Riche_guy]

If you want to get your car checked, go else where besides the dealership. there must be a reputable garage that would work on the Aurora. It would definately be $$ cheaper. Also have them look for the coolant leak as well. Not very environmentally safe to have it all over the road.

[snowmant76]

It could be coming from a lot of places. A lot of shops will through it on a lift an just look at it for you. If you call around i bet you can find one that will. As far as finding it yourself i might look around the thermostat leaks sometimes come from that area. Just a suggestion.

[Autobanaurora]

As for the coolant leak, the water pump leaked on mine and nobody could find it. It leaked very slow at 105,000, just enough to smell. Replaced pump and hoses, dried up in days.

Be prepared to spend some cash, don't use remanufactured, go brand new, it's no easy task.