....in the barf tank

there was a couple of spoonfulls of what looked like tiny pieces of shreaded cardboard in the overflow tank when I flushed it out....is this just the inside of the hoses flaking off, since they are 10 years old by now?

I guess I need to break down and replace all the coolant hoses

it's all about PM with this car, ain't it? I haven't overheated yet and want to keep it that way

 

It could just be dead alge thathad built up over time.

 

too bad. you need a new radiator. I had the same thing happen to me. its the fiberglass tubing that your radiator hose is connected to. It probable got crushed over time by the constent torque clamps. Or the inner lining is going. either way a new radiator is good.
good luck

 

ok, blade....thanks for the tip

do I have any options at this point aside from replacing the radiator? does the flaking mean the radiator is going to take a dump any time now?

 

The flaking is probably the protective coating in the filler housing and in the radiator. Its the first thing to corrode. Your radiator is probably still good for a while but never a bad idea to replace it with a larger more efficient one.

While you are at it, check your thermostat/test it. Makes a big difference with how your car keeps things cool...at least it made one for me.

 

Hey YZF I have a brand new Koyo 55mm aluminum radiator for sale!

 

boostd,

another guy on here is selling one for $300 + ship....what are you asking?

when I did a search, everyone seems to complain about fitment issues with Koyo....since I have the M2 med IC which already scrapes the hood a little now, I think I will be screwed with the Koyo

 

I have a fluidyne. dropped right in with no problems or modifying. its a little more expensive and a little smaller (still much bigger than stock)

 

yup. I agree, it probably pieces from the fiberglass tubing. I noticed the same thing when my stock radiator failed. I have since replaced it with a fluidyne and have no regrets yet.

 

Mark,

Get a Mazdaspeed... and do it quick. Some cold weather and that puppys going to rupture.