Mitsubishi Repair: Engine Overheating, head gasket problem, radiator hoses

Question
Hello. I'd really appreciate if you could help me. I have a Eclipse 98 GS. The engine is overheating after a very small amount of time. When applying gas to move, it heats up more. The car only smokes when I turn off the car after overheating. I've been told its probably a head gasket problem. ( Hopefully a leak in anti-freeze, I'M HOPING. )

Just wondering if you have any insight on the problem.

Answer
Greg,
If you squeeze your upper or lower radiator hoses and you do not feel any pressure on them (like there is no fluid), then that means your fluid is leaking out.  If there are no puddles of coolant on the ground, that would indicate your coolant is burning up in the engine; typically caused by a bad head gasket.  Even a lack of engine oil can cause overheating.  I would recommend having a mechanic give your engine a compression test. This helps detect if your head gasket has blown.
Good luck!