Water Leak Can't locate the source

[cntinuum]

I am getting some drops of antifreeze on the garage floor. It is dripping from the "inspection" pan under the oil pan. I take the pan off and I see orange coolant on the bottom of the A/C compressor and the oil pan bolts in the same area. One bolt head has scale on it. I removed the ALT, idler pulley and A/C compressor from the block to get a better look. I didn't see or feel any moisture. The hose above the thermostat housing is dry.

I replaced the water pump when I did the first replacement of the Fan Clutch 2-3 years ago. I recently replaced the thermostat "assembly" and sensor right above it in the last few months. Before starting this project today, I thought the thermostat housing was the source. The area on the block is a real PITA to get clean. Original part left a black ring on the opening. Used a 3M pad to lightly work the area. Was afraid of scratching the surface and cause a leak. I do not see any signs of the recently replaced parts leaking. I was expecting to find an orange line running down the side of the engine from the leak.

All I see is some rust forming on the motor mount bolt heads further back on the engine. To be leaking onto the compressor, I would think the leak would have to be above or forward(towards the fan) on the engine. It is not very much, but it is an annoyance and need to watch the reservoir level. Any suggestions?

 

[Wex]

I can't say if its happening to you. Whenever my compressor was damp with coolant, I had a small leak from the clamps loosening up on the radiator hose to thermostat neck. Easiest way for me to see is lift that corner, crawl under and use a flashlight to look up. You won't see much if you look down from the hood.

 

[cntinuum]

I can't say if its happening to you. Whenever my compressor was damp with coolant, I had a small leak from the clamps loosening up on the radiator hose to thermostat neck. Easiest way for me to see is lift that corner, crawl under and use a flashlight to look up. You won't see much if you look down from the hood.

Possible, I have the rig on jack stands and have been under the looking up. I wiped my hand on the under side of this connection. I just might replace the spring clamp. If it is leaking where the lower radiator hose connects to the housing neck, it sure would fit with the other physical evidence. I was going to start the rig up and let it run to see if the drip would show itself.