Replacement Radiator tips

[OzGuvnor]

Hey forum users,
I have a NA8 97 manual and at the last track day someone pointed out that the plastic top of the radiator is discoloured brown and that that is a sign of an original radiator at the end of its life. Sound like good advice?

Thinking of replacing it, and all the heater hoses as well. Thoughts?
Anything else related I should consider changing at the same time? Thermostat?

Also the Mazda original is a bit over $440, and http://www.radiatorwholesalers.com.au have one for $220. They are in Perth, anyone used them?
Or have any local Melbourne recommendations?

Thanks

[93_Clubman]

Top & bottom tanks are plastic & go brown after some years, however they stay brown for many years before cracking. But if you're tracking the car, as opposed to just a daily, then better to sort sooner rather than later.

You may already be aware, but the metal heater pipes at the firewall are quite soft so be careful removing & refitting new rubber pipes.

Options:
Replace with a 40mm-42mm ASI alloy rad - $165 & currently free postage;
Replace with new OEM rad from NA automatic transmission or like - thicker; or
Replace old rad top & bottom plastic tanks - $200-$300;
Replace with new OEM or like.
http://www.ebay.com.au/bhp/mx5-radiator
40mm ASI alloy rad - $165 free postage (says $50 but put in Aust postcode & click & it comes up free):
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/40mm-Core-PR ... del%3AMX-5
42mm ASI alloy rad - $169 free postage:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/42mm-Core-PR ... 884wt_1000

[Red Dragon]

Many of us have replaced our radiators with the ASI brand from Laverton with no problems, mine was about 4 years ago.
Free delivery or you can go to their warehouse and pick up if in a hurry

[OzGuvnor]

The ASI option sounds interesting. No fussing to fit I take it?
Do they sell heater hose kits too?
Thanks for the tip on the firewall outlets.

[93_Clubman]

42mm ASI fits no problem, but the 40mm is new to me so can't comment, apart from noting that on the forum most talk is about the 42mm.

Don't think they also sell heater hose kits, but do you mean a full radiator & heater etc hose kit? If so, probably ebay again.

[manga_blue]

The best way to get hoses is a complete set. The kevlar reinforced ones fom the UK are my pick: leak free clamping, durability and good fit. Search through here for the right set. http://www.autolinkmx5.com/ You may also need to buy a meter or so of stock hose from Repco to do the little hoses from the thermostat housing to the throttle body to the oil filter mount to the rear of the head. These ones blow at least as often as any of the others.

Personally I really dislike the silicon hoses - they're too prone to clamping problems and leakage.