Ok so I came home and noticed my radiator was dripping from a bunch of these holes under it. I then noticed my front axle was covered in fluid like it had been spraying out. My temperature gauge in my truck doesn't change running about a 1/4. But once I come to a stop I always notice a big puddle under it. Is there a way to test the leak or fix it or does it sound like it needs to be replaced?

 

Go to an auto parts store and borrow a pressure tester, be careful when you remove the radiator cap and the system needs to be full when you test it. It depends on where the leak is coming from on what will need to be replaced/repaired.

 

Ok ill try pressure testing it, do those fluids you can buy at Canadian tire for radiator leak fix work ? I guess that would only be a temporarily fix

 

Don't dump any of the leak fix it stuff in there. It'll do more damage than good. I've seen it not only plug up the leak, but also plug up the thermostat and small coolant passages.

Find out where it's leaking from and replace the parts.

 

Ok thanks for the advice my truck is a 96 f-150, what is a radiator like to change out. Besides disconnecting lines it's pretty straight forward?

 

On a '96 its not hard at all. Ive changed so many out, it takes me about 20 min to do it now. You might have to do a little maneuvering to wiggle it out, but the new one should drop straight in. Might want to go ahead and change out your thermostat when you change out your radiator.

As far a the leak stuff goes, not a good idea. I've seen blown heads from people using that stuff. The pressure test is easy to do. Might have to get an adapter though. Should be able to rent them from Autozone or a parts house. Make sure to do it with the engine cold so you don't burn yourself and also wear eye protection!