Unicorn Jeep

I’m frustrated, my xj is leaking from the lower radiator hose at the radiator side. It’s been about a month and a half of fighting with this and nothing seems to be helping it. I’ve gone through two hoses, numerous clamps, rtv, and a new radiator cap just for nothing to work. I pulled the radiator about two weeks ago to inspect if for cracks but found nothing. I’m lost, I feel like I’ve done everything except replacing the radiator. Has anybody had this issue before? Do I just bite the bullet and throw in a new radiator?

IJM

Are you using spring clamps on the hose or screw clamps?

Unicorn Jeep

I was initially using worm gear clamps but after like 3 or so that failed to seal I switched to a t-bolt style. Can't really tell if it made a difference

IJM

Have you tried using a pressure tester to see if you can pinpoint the leak and if it still leaks when cold?

lawsoncl

Is it possible it's actually leaking from where the trans cooler line connects to the radiator?

Unicorn Jeep

I haven't pressure tested it, although I may try that this weekend. The leak is coming from the hose/inlet and seems to pool up on the hose clamp.

Unicorn Jeep

Its a manual so there's no trans cooler lines

IJM

Hence why you've tried several clamps and hoses to no avail, which is frustrating. The only thing I can think of is there's a small crack or something in the plastic that's not very noticeable. With a new hose and a good clamp, it should seal fine.

Ralph77

What lawsoncl said.
Spectra radiator in my '00 after about 7 years started leaking there.
Played with the clamps, repositioned the hose, etc.
Then what I thought was a dumb idea popped into my head.
What if the nut that secures the fitting for the lower tranny line had loosened up a smidge?
Put a wrench to it and sure enough.

Rogue4x4

I think we need to wait for OP to do a pressure test, but everyone has given great insight on what it could be so far...I just wanted to add something I saw while having my morning coffee. I've seen this guy's vids before, and he does a pretty good job at testing and comparing whatever tool or part he's focusing on. Since this one is hose clamp related I thought I'd post it.


I know OP said he tried several different clamps, so it may or may not apply, but one of the things people overlook is wear and damage. I almost always try to replace hose clamps if I remove them, especially nowadays as Chinesium parts dominate the market, and the quality is questionable even when brand new...

Knucklebuster

Water pump. Leaks out the weep hole in the water pump and right on the lower radiator hose where it connects to the water pump.

bluejeep2001

Its possible someone has put a dent in the radiator hose tube and now its not possible for the hose to seal. Its very tight clearance down there, to get a good look