Rad problem (possibly)

[dino]

Every now and again when i start my car it beeps and tells me to add coolant but never needs to take much. also it seems to be boiling up even though the temp gauge doesnt show it. after a short journey the other day with no hard driving for some strange reason a mate stupidly opened the cap and the cap blew off then steam + quite alot of water/antifreeze boiled out everywhere. should they get this hot this quickly?

[Rotorboy65]

Hi Dino, sounds like the problem I had 3 years back when I first got mine. I would suggest getting a rotary expert too take a look at it, left mine a bit too late then bang overheated engine = front rotor plate cracking= expensive rebuild. Turn\'t out too be a knackered thermostat, get it checked as soon as poss mate would not like too see someone else going the same way as myself. It\'s not a nice feeling, best regards Leigh.

[Squealy]

Dino.

Hate to put a dampner on things but isn\'t your problem an early sign of water seal failure.  I hope I am wrong.  I\'m sure one of the more experienced members will be able to shed a bit more light.

Also I wouldn\'t pay too much attention to your temp gauge not reading too high.  They seem to be a bit inaccurate.  

Fingers crossed for ya buddy.

Neil

[iaint]

Could be a few things as mentioned - thermostat, seal failure.

Best thing is to get it checked out by an expert.

Mine had similar problems and ended up needing a rebuild - part of the cause was that the rad was only flowing @ 40% so not cooling properly.

Get it checked before any damage is done to the seals - it only takes one overheating to begin the decline.

Iain

[Martin]

also get a external temp gauge as the one on the dash isn\'t known for its accuracy. if you have a apexi commander, set the fan to come on at the lowest setting which is 85c i think?

[nikp]

From what I\'ve heard is that the most common reason for engine failure (requiring rebuild) is overheating.

I\'ve also read some information that allows you to convert the standard mazda temp gauge to actually move with the temperature of the water - highly useful!

Here we go:
http://www.iluvmyrx7.com/3rdgen/how-to/Temp%20gauge%20mod.pdf>Temp Gauge Mod