Just purchased an '88 Pontiac Firebird Formula and its due for inspection in a few days and has me worried. The lower radiator hose where its fastened onto the radiator itself seems to be dripping coolant. I tried tightening the clamp down more and it still has a steady drip, especially after taking it around the block. Could it be a worn out hose where it connects to the radiator or could it be the radiator spout be cracked? Would it pass inspection and does it sound like i need a new hose or a radiator? Thanks
Could it be a worn out hose
yeah I'd say that's a strong possibility on a 34yo car. A new hose should be just the ticket. Quick job. Not too expensive.
Well it's either going to be a bad hose or crack in the radiator, not much else in the way of possibilities.
As far as whether it will pass inspection there's no way we can know that since we have no idea what inspection requirements are in your jurisdiction, wherever that might be.
If the hose you tightened down still leaks, the solder where the snout is mounted has probably failed.
https://www.autozone.com/cooling-heating-and-climate-control/radiator
