Radiator not pulling from reserve

[Hotrod]

Newly purchased 2003 GT. After 5 trips back to the dealer and less than 40 days since puchase my pt is still overheating from lack of coolant in the radiator. Reserve stays full and the first time I took it the radiator was bone dry. Add about half a gallon every other day or approx 80 - 100 miles mostly city in sunny florida where the afternoon temp is mid 80's in afternoons. Dealership has flushed the system twice, changed thermistat, ofcourse refilled the radiator the first time and charged me for the second flush and stated that it's been after 30 days from purchase. The fan is running and seems louder than normal auto's but is turning. No white smoke or water in oil. Any suggestions???

[EJIII]

Are you sure whether the radiator cap has been replaced? The cap is the device that allows coolant to be sucked into the radiator from the overflow reservoir as the engine cools. If that's not it, then have the dealer put a light vacuum on the cooling system. It's possible(although remotely) that the cooling system could have a leak that allows air in, but blocks coolant from escaping. Have you noticed if the volume in your overflow reservoir actually increases?
Try to follow the KISS method as you figure this out (Keep It Simple Stupid)!

[Hotrod]

Thanks for the info. The reserve does increase, it's to the bottom of the neck while sitting cooled off. Cap hadn't been replaced since I've purchased the vehicle from a Chysler dealership. All that's been done is two flushes, the thermostat replaced, and pressure test. Not sure this is anything but the last time I checked the radiator after the last flush and pressure test I got bubbles in the reserve as soon as I turned the cap to vent it before checking the fluids, engine wasn't hot nor cold at the time.[:I]

[purple04]

If it passed the pressure test (did NOT leak down), change the cap.
I'd also ask to speak to the manager about the service. If you had a warranty issue and they did not fix the problem, the time limit doesn't stop.

[quicksilverdon]

quote:Originally posted by EJIII

Are you sure whether the radiator cap has been replaced? The cap is the device that allows coolant to be sucked into the radiator from the overflow reservoir as the engine cools. If that's not it, then have the dealer put a light vacuum on the cooling system. It's possible(although remotely) that the cooling system could have a leak that allows air in, but blocks coolant from escaping. Have you noticed if the volume in your overflow reservoir actually increases?
Try to follow the KISS method as you figure this out (Keep It Simple Stupid)!

My vote, too.
Only other item would be water pump - with engine cold, start engine with cap off and look into radiator - should see water flowing in radiator.

[EJIII]

Hotrod, the bubbles you noticed are normal for a slightly warm engine. As long as there is pressure in the cooling system when you remove the cap, you'll get some transfer from the radiator to the overflow tank, whether it's air or coolant. Let us know whether a new cap helps. I've got some more suggestions, but need to follow my own advice(KISS)!