Radiator has pinkish gunk, I am terrified.

[Sepurb]

first and foremost hello and I appreciate that u can register on a Treo, LIFESAVERS!!!

anyway I have a 2006 mazda 6 and over the past week and a half the temperature gauge has fluctuated from Normal(needle in middle) to HOT. I noticed the scent of coolant but I was told that since it calms down I would be ok until I discovered the problem. well over time I realized that it had been SPEWING antifreeze due to the mess covering the motor.

I added water 2 the reservoir and replaced the ruined radiator cap, albeit with a 92 accord cap, and the problem was still the same. well wednesday the car was going uncomfortably close 2 "H" and I asked more quasi-mechanics what I should do and I was told again 2 add water 2 the reservoir and try 2 maintain the Normal temp. well @ about 11pm I went outside with a half filled gallon of water 2 add 2 the reservoir, I noticed that not only was it plenty of fluid that resembled a pink & green fruitcake but also that the inside of the radiator was practically insulated with creamy whitish-pink gunk. man I have no clue what's going on but I really don't want 2 crank the car & I may take off from work 2moro. please help!! if this is the wrong board I apoogize greatly!!! thanks in advance.

Sepurb

 

[arkenzo]

The molecular components of coolant break down over time due to heat, contaminants, etc. It is important to check the coolant colour at least annually (with a cool engine, remove the coolant reservoir cap and use a coolant tester to check the colour and quality). Coolant normally goes in green or pink with the consistency of kool-aid, but after 5 years or so it will darken a fair bit and get thicker as it captures contaminants in the cooling system.

Make sure you get a flush and fill when you get the coolant changed, not just a drain and fill. The coolant can't hang onto all of the contaminants in the system and they build up over time. A flush gets rid of most of them, preventing blockages, leaks, etc. - all of which can be very expensive to fix later.