Good day to all, I’ll try and explain this the best I can. Hoping for some insight or second opinions,
I was driving on highway and noticed slight smell of coolant, didn’t think much of it but the next day I was running some errands and noticed my van was acting a bit sluggish, almost like it wouldn’t shift into first gear when stopping and starting. After that I noticed the temp climbing up, never reached the top of the gauge but I immediately pulled into a gas station and inspected.

Upon inspection I noticed a steady drip of coolant below the radiator area. I wasn’t far from home so I parked it and got a ride from the wife and waited until the evening to drive it home quickly as I live around 5 km away.

During my drive home, it never got over the normal operating temperature.

Once I got home to inspect, I noticed the only spot that looks like it was leaking coolant is the top outlet on the radiator.

Now I am about to order a new radiator, but curious as to whether I should replace the thermostat at the same time? New rad hose just incase?
I know enough that I probably should replace those all at the same time but I’m curious whatever everyone else thinks considering it didn’t overheat right away when I drove home would that mean the thermostat is working or maybe bad thermostat caused this.

Excuse my rant but your input is appreciated.

 

May be air leaked into system through hole in the radiator and caused temporary coolant blockage...
Thermostat can be inspected by boiling it in water with thermometer IMHO all new thermostats must be checked before installation (even OEM)

I think it's a good idea to replace hoses and thermostat, since this vehicle is around 20 years old, but it's up to you (and your wallet) to inspect their condition and decide.

 

Replacing the thermostat and hoses along with the radiator seems like a smart move to me. I did something similar last year and it saved me from future headaches. Better safe than sorry, right?

 

The radiator should be replaced. Based on the age and miles replacing hoses, clamps, belts , radiator cap and coolant is what we alway suggest to our customers. But we do state that it is preventative parts replacement regarding some parts and not because that have or may fail.
As for testing a new thermostat before installing, if you buy a top brand like STANT it’s ridiculous to go to the trouble.
I would have also suggested to have done a coolant test to rule out other unforeseen engine concerns .But also not necessary but based on the info you post , should consider.

ASE