Ive got a coolant leak!

[I_ride89Jeep]

I have '89 Cherokee 4x4. I was comin home from work when I realized my enigne was runin HOT! I pulled over and to no surprise..popped the hood to find steam comin from the coolant jug!I waited for it to cool,added some water...figured out that coolant it's leaking out from both hoses leading in and out of the jug! Made sure both hoses were tight but it still leaks..what should I do? Replace the hoses? Any help would be great! Thanks so much!

[MagicRat]

Originally Posted by I_ride89Jeep

Replace the hoses?

yes

[StvDiego]

Changing the hoses is a good idea, also make sure the clamps make a good seal, are in good shape and not too tight (overtightening or bad clamps can cause leaks).

But, I would really recommend changing that '89 closed system for an open system. I picked up a new '92, 3-core radiator from GDI for about $125 shipped. I also replaced the early heater valve with a '92 valve (got it for free from the wrecking yard) and picked up a used electric fan for $10 and have had no heating problems, even at crawling speeds in the desert at 113 degrees.

Here's a link to some useful info on the changeover: http://www.off-road.com/jeep/cheroke.../radiator.html

Oh, mine is an '88, 4.0 auto

[Saudade]

Also, make sure it's the hoses and not the plastic fittings on the coolant bottle itself. Mine developed a crack and I had to replace it. They're rudely expensive at the dealer but you can likely find one at a salvage yard.

or you can go here: http://tinyurl.com/dfjuf

[SteveB05]

So...did you fix it? I would go for the open system change over regardless.

[I_ride89Jeep]

Ok I replaced the hoses and clamps and I still got a leak! So Im guna go ahead and replace the jug and see how it goes! I did find a small crack which I believe is the problem! I will definetly take the open system into consideration further down the road!Thanks for the replies, I appreciate it!