Coolant system containing thick substance

BRYCE CLINE

MEMBER
2007 MAZDA 3
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
80,000 MILES

I am swapping motors from a 2006 Mazda 3i and putting it in 2007 Mazda 3i both automatic. The 2007 I just bought had a serious overheating issue and toasted the motor. I was tossing the radiator etc, all of the coolant system so there isn't the question or chance of overheating it again. I want to re use the heater core but when I pulled radiator out a thick chalky liquid slowly came out. I didn't know if that would be cancer to the whole system or if I could flush the heater core and reuse the one that was part of that system?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi,

Based on what you described, I have a feeling someone was putting a stop leak product into the system. If it was me, I wouldn't use any of the original parts just because it could lead to new problems. Since the vehicle will already be taken apart, I would do it now. Also, inspect the heater hoses as well if you plan to reuse them.

I don't know if you need it, but here is a link that you may find helpful. It discusses in general how to replace a heater core.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-heater-core

Take care and good luck. let me know if you need anything.

Joe