Coolant level dropping & Dirty coolant

[Molez93]

Originally Posted by Molez93

I just spent a little over 3hrs of driving time at Watkins Glen this weekend, and I would consistently "loose" whatever coolant was in the resevoir tank. I added to the tank after the first few times I noticed it on day one. Decided to skip it today (2nd day).

Zero tell tale signs of coolant system issues otherwise: no smell, no visible leaks, no residue, nothing weird about the oil in either the catch-can or on the dip stick.

Will take a look at the oil itself from the pan in the next couple days, but I just HATE the idea of simply assuming this is normal.

Anything specific to my experience that would suggest I'm close to trouble?

Just to close the loop (I hope) on my issue. Looks like the hoses connected to the filling unit- the part with the cap - were a little loose. The hose clamps were tight based on a brief hand and finger check, but could be further tightened up with a socket. Had mistakenly figured that was not likely because a race shop last touched the car. Lesson learned and at least the temps never moved above normal street driving midpoint readings.

[guybo]

If you want to be really sure that you don't have a blown head gasket, get a combustion leak detector. They are about $50 and test your coolant for combustion gasses (indicating a head gasket leak)

[Molez93]

Originally Posted by guybo

If you want to be really sure that you don't have a blown head gasket, get a combustion leak detector. They are about $50 and test your coolant for combustion gasses (indicating a head gasket leak)

Interesting...never heard of those. Will probably check that out.

Turns out I was a bit premature in thinking I addressed the issue. Still leaking, but have isolated it to cold start conditions. Definitely in the radiator cap area. Might even be a cap problem.