Maxie40

OK I may be close to solving this case of green fluid (antifreeze). When my overflow tank is low (between half and full) I get a very small puddle of antifreeze under the oil pan area. I could not figure it, Had my radiator pressure tested and that was fine. This past week my temp needle went up and it scared the heck out of me as that has not happened in 15 years. I poured anti-freeze in my overflow tank and in my radiator (once it cooled off). The needle went back to normal and stayed in the middle. I took my '95 Maxima SE to another mechanic and he said it was my water pump. Overflow tank is a little above the high mark and the radiator was topped off by that mechanic. No more antifreeze under the oil pan and I think this mechanic is correct and my water pump is failing.

max ride 41

iTrader: (4)

i think he over filled your rad, i had a weep hole dripping for years and still do on my 95 from time to time. it might be your thermostat going bad.

M in KC

Yes check you lower rad hose to t-stat connection. I had a ton of dried up coolant on mine. A quick hit with some steel wool and the hose to t-stat connections was tight again.

JvG

You might want to consider the difference between a planned cooling system repair vs a catastrophic breakdown on the hottest day of the year. The former is much cheaper.

Our pumps are over 20 years old now. They only live so long. The pump probably needs to be replaced now, or soon.

You might also consider that all hoses are available on Amazon for less than 100 dollars. Radiator replacement is not to costly.

Parts cost for all that is in the 250 to 300 dollar range.

The pay off is peace of mind.

Peace of mind is being able to have the air conditioning on while stuck in traffic when it's over 100 degree's outside.

Maxie40

My 95 Maxima SE is 25 years old this month and with over 275K miles. Pump is original to the car. I know it is the pump as I have never had a fluid leak like that ever in that part of my vehicle. Better to be safe than sorry

Maxie40

Very hard to get out water pump. I was scared of damaging bolt threads and worse damaging the aluminum block. With patience and PB Blaster, it finally came out. It was toast, glad I am replacing it.

JvG

The pump bolts should be tightened gradually and evenly. Don't force things! The pump has very little side to side clearance. Too much tightenin on one side will cause binding and stripped bolt holes.

This is no fun. Be patient. You will succeeed.