my coolant leak
 

I recently had a complications of my Supra leaking a coolant. I checked the radiator itself and it didn't show any leak. Also, I checked 2 large hoses from the radiator, also doesn't show any damage. I figured, water pump? Could be the water pump gasket? Please let me know, my car is 1986 Supra MK3 Manual.

I'm having the same problem only I'm sure it's coming from a bad pump gasket. I'd like to know if I should use a straight gasket or if I need anything like liquid gasket as well? I just want to make sure if I do this that it will take care of the problem and not leak again. Mine is an '87.

If it's an uncoated, paper gasket I always use a good gasket dressing... This isn't the same as trying to pack in 5 tablespoons of RTV form-in-place-gasket silicone. Whatever you use just a very thin coat is all you need... I prefer spray dressings for uniformity and to prevent buildup. Make sure it's coolant compatible... they're rare but some dressings are not compatible with some of the ingredients used in coolant.

Thanks a bunch!

There is a small hose behind water pump. It sets by the exhaust manifold and drys out. I have replaced it on mine twice in four years.

also another question... Would it be best to change this gasket in warmer weather? I figure there's a lot more expansion/contraction in the winter when the car warms up rather than in the summer when the temps are closer together?

Thanks I'll have a look at that too. :wavey:

Could you recommend anything specific? What's the stuff you use?

My preference is Hylomar's sealants. Hylomar Universal Blue is good for most applications. They make a spray which I prefer for HGs but it's nearly impossible to find. Hylomar Advanced Formula (solvent free) is supposed to work very well too, it's free flowing so you want to use as little as possible because what doesn't fit into surface imperfections will press out... I would apply either by just wetting the gasket and apply to the metal surfaces with the edge of a business card to squeegee in just enough.

http://www.hylomarsealant.com/_resou.../products.html

They got hard to find for a while but Mopar sells their universal blue under the name Mopar Hylomar.... and it seems Permatex now has licensed the sealant as well.