Cooling system overhaul - anything else?

[vrsmxtb]

I'm getting my entire cooling system replaced due to overheating problems and coolant loss from out of the expansion tank. I'm planning new rad, new hoses, waterpump and it has just had a new thermostat.

I'm having the cambelt done at the same time as I have no proof of a recent change. While all this is done is there anything else that will be worth doing while things are in pieces? Is this a good opportunity to get the timing advanced and also I have heard of cam/crank shaft oil seals that are recommended to be changed every now and then?

[snotrag]

Absolutely, definitely get the waterpump changed. You should change it anyway when the belts off, but especially as your losing coolant.

Not unknown for them to fail and leak. It's hard to spot too as it drips behind the crank pulley. Mine did it.

[Richyvrlimited]

Don't forget to change the rad cap.

It's worth changing that first actually, your symptoms sound like a failing rad cap, might save you a small fortune...

[towelie]

have a look at the T piece on the thermostat housing and make sure that isn't corroded and about to leak! mine had corroded and snapped off last summer!

[PlayersNo6]

I believe you need to use silicate free antifreeze in the MX5 engines.

[vrsmxtb]

Richyvrlimited said:

Don't forget to change the rad cap.

It's worth changing that first actually, your symptoms sound like a failing rad cap, might save you a small fortune...

Yep first thing I did and I thought it had fixed it! Sadly not, think the rad may be blocked, the coolant is an awful rusty colour.