1991 Mazda MPV Heating up very quickly after long drive

COERSUM

MEMBER
1991 MAZDA MPV
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
13,100 MILES

We bought this van just a month ago and seemed to be working fine, yesterday we were going to take about an hour drive (it was about 90 degrees outside) and after 20 minutes or so, the hose connecting to the radiator blew off of it and sprayed just about everything under the hood.

Seems after replugging it in, it was starting ok but now within a few minutes of driving, it will overheat. I checked the coolant and it was WAY over what it should be so I took some out to put it back within the lines. Also if I try to start it while it's still very warm, it will start for a second then stop. From what I read around, it may be a blown head gasket.

Any idea of suggestion is welcome and thank you!

2 Replies

DOCFIXIT

MECHANIC
18,828 POSTS

Start with thermostat and system flush.

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Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009 AT 2:54 PM

COERSUM

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I read that sometimes it can be caused by belt tension, I forgot to mention that the belt has been squealing more and more lately. I checked the belts and seem in good condition but I think they need to be tighten a bit more than they are. Could this cause this problem?

I will look at the thermostat and system flush also, that's a good start. Thank you!