possible 5203 engine problem?

[DPic105]

Looking for a little help. I have a new (249 hrs) 5203. Mostly used for haying. The last few times that I've used it, all that I can smell is anti-freeze. I HAVE rechecked and tightened all of the hose clamps. I HAVE put in anti-freeze into the expansion tank. (Its now empty) and of course, I have checked the radiator, which is full. I have also checked the oil, and it looks good, no sign of water.
Now, having said all that, it has been as cold as a witches *&% here for the past few weeks, with temps below 0 for a few days. I have used the tractor during a few of theose3 days, but only after a really good warm-up, with the temp in the green.
My question is this- Does anyone have any ideas???

Thanks

 

[jd110]

I assume you are not seeing any external leakage? Do you think the smell is coming from the exhaust? If so, then I might suspect a head gasket, cracked head or cylinder block. All of these problems are pretty rare for these engines. More likely there is an external leak that is evaporating on the hot engine as fast as it is leaking. If you can get a cooling system pressure tester that is the best way to find a leak. Also take a close look at the hose connecting the expansion tank to the radiator neck. A leak in this hose will not show up in a pressure test. Look for any sign of a stain on the engine or radiator that can indicate a leak also.

 

[mfreund]

Did you test the antifreeze b-4 winter?? You need a pressure tester to see where it is leaking I hope it did not crack head or block just a loose clamp. If the antifreeze was weak, check the bottom of radiator as this seems to be the first place to freeze. Also much cheaper to relace!