The car has not been driven since Thursday and has never been over heated.
I go to start it up and it goes hot, I turn it off and there is coolant pouring out the top of the radiator. It's the original radiator with the plastic top and apparrently it split over the weekend. Anyone else have a spontaneous self-destruct like this before?

 

On top of the radiator nearest the bumper, or at the filler neck near the engine?

 

top of the radiator nearest the bumper
it is non repairable
a 2 pass all aluminum radiator is on the way

 

Well, looking at my rex just now, the filler neck assembly and cap looks exactly like the assembly at the top of the radiator. Does the split look like this...? Or similar...

 

Doh =\

I thought it was the plastic piece that was cracked in your case. If it is, that can be repaired.

 

Check your thermostat while the car is down. My rad split too and it was a case of a failed thermostat.

B

 

damn good idea

 

its not cracked it split wide open, I think the 14yr old plastic just gave up
plus I found the replacement radiator for a reasonable $225

 

www.coolradiator.com

 

so noted for future reference, I went ahead and ordered a new thermostat a few minutes ago, it's probably original too.

 

Mine did excatly the same thing
I filled it in with Ultra Black RTV and it held for a few months.

Then . . .


BLAM!!!!!! It EXPLODED, huge crack, the entire top split completely open.

I reccomend getting a new Rad cap while you are at it Mazda OEM!

 

I'll have to see what comes with new radiator, I really appreciate all the suggestions guys!

 

I clarify: Mazda OEM thermostat as well

 

I am getting OEM cap if need be and definately OEM thermostat
and definetly NOT the Mazda OEM radiator - they (as in Mazda) quoted me $1200
I'll get the superior radiator for $1k less thank you.