ok just so everyone knows i'm not having a heat issue with the radiator. it cools just fine like it should. i was just expecting to get more than 2-3years form it thats all. and was wonder if the all alluminum rad. will hold up better to the elements. as for flushing the system... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> i hate to see all that pressure put through the system. cause my understanding is they use a lot of pressure more than what the engine creates. i hear a lot of people that do get there system flushed end up with a blown motor cause something goes wrong with the flush and they end up driving down the road as all the anitfreeze leaks out, then a few day later boom!! engine gone...so i dont trust the flush all that much...

to answer the question of why did i change it the first time, it kind of sprung a leak and was falling a part. had nothing to do with the shovel incidence..dont ask...and now the rad. is turning green(fins) and really looking beat up with some rust..i'm sure it will last the winter i hope

but for the most part this thread has turned into quite the debate. which i find most interesting.. i can see bigjim point but to only run straight antifreeze...i dont think it will work up here where it gets to be -10-20 degrees weeks at a time...like he stated.. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />