Mitsubishi Repair: 98 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS cooling problem, mitsubishi eclipse gs, coolant level

Question
Hey, my eclipse has been having cooling problems lately.  Thursday my lower radiator hose had a large cut in it so i replaced it.  Then yesterday my upper hose blew completely off.  So i went out bought a new hose, better clamps, etc.  I put them on today and drove it a bit and it was smoking again.  There were no visible leaks on either hose, the thermostat assembly, or the radiator, and my gauges show the temp is normal.  At first I thought it was just the antifreeze that had spilled onto the engine during the change but after driving it some more that is definitely not what it is.  Also, it does not appear to be smoking while I am driving, only when I pull in and it stops although it maybe just not be visible while I am driving.  Any ideas would help greatly.

Answer
Michael,
If the car is not overheating at this point, the best thing to do is keep an eye on the coolant level.  Keep a spare gallon of 50/50 mixture in car just in case if going on a long road trip.  If you have too much coolant, it may be coming out the overflow tank and wicking back onto a hot engine part.  This may account for the smell.  Check your radiator for damage or corrosion.  Even if the coolant is simply weeping out, it will burn off quickly on the hot radiator.  Also, keep an eye on the passenger floor boards.  If you notice dampness, that may indicate a leak in the heater core.  Turn on your heat and see if the odor gets stronger.  Sometimes you may even hear the noise of water splashing back and forth.
Good luck!