Had a very similar situation on 95 Camry LE 4Cyl Auto radiator last
summer at approx 125000 miles.

Never smelled the coolant but noticed level dropping in reservoir.

I won't say that you couldn't epoxy it satisfactorily because I didn't
try, but our mechanic (independent & trustworthy) recommended
replacement and I went with his advice.

It's pretty easy to swap out the radiator, but then again, it's going
to cost you a couple of hours, new coolant, the time it takes to buy
one, disposal of the old one, etc., etc., as well as $200 more or less
for the new aftermarket radiator.

Some JB WELD would be a lot quicker and considerably cheaper.  Not
saying it will work, not saying it won't, but I'd be tempted to try --
ask the parts counter folks for an opinion if you have a good parts
store nearby.

And, if you go the cheapo route, two things:

1. He who cheaps out usually ends up spending considerably more in the
long run.

2. If you "cheap out," keep a close eye on it for a couple, three
weeks until you are satisfied all is well.

Good luck.

I posted a bit ago about cheaping out and trying a patch.  I just
offhandly mentioned JB Weld, even though there are lots of other
products that would probably work as well or better.  But, being bored
and stuck at home today, I did end up going to the JB Web site.  They
have a lot more products than I remember...even one that will work on
gas tanks....

So, with the cavet that I don't know if patching will work. I don't
know if one of JB's products will work. And I have no financial
interest in JB Weld at all...although I wish I did, you might just
look at their Web site and see if you get any ideas. And, just so I
don't sound so much like a "shill for JB," even tho. I deny it, you
might try a local speciality radiator shop and see if they have a
cheap solution they would be able to do for $40...$50....or you might
try a local plumbling supply house and see if they have a sealer they
might recommend.

There is a "Marine Epoxy" that I use on PVC pipes that are in constant
contact with water that is fantastic, but I don't remember the name,
but the guys at the plumb supply warehouse turned me onto it. Anyway,
the JB site is:

http://jbweld.net/products/index.php

I had used Permatex's radiator epoxy once as a temporary fix while
getting a replacement. For things like this, I like to go to the local
NAPA parts store because they can get one the next morning if they
don't have it in stock. And they offer lifetime warranty. rockauto.com
however, offers better prices.

The one I used was the blue one on the left, about $5. Didn't see the
green one at Pep Boys:
http://www.permatex.com/products/automotive/specialized_maintenance_repair/radia
tor_fuel_tank_repair.htm

If you're doing the work, it's a good time to change out all the
cooling system hoses and thermostat. I prefer Gates belts and hoses,
but always go with toyota thermostat and coolant (plus distilled
water).

Bite the bullet.

Ed

What a coincidence, my 95 just had a 1.5 year old radiator crack in the
same place. I was just going to replace it but after reading this thread
I'm going to try patching it. Even if it only lasts for a couple of
months it will me a bit more freedom as to when I replace it.

Mitch