On a 97 accord 4cyl, I have this problem at least once every 2 years where the radiator cap falls apart and won't pull antifreeze back into the radiator from the reservoir causing it to run hot or bubble in the reservoir.

The top part still seals but bottom with the spring comes off and goes down into the radiator. This is the third time I have replaced the cap so there are probably 3 pieces or more down in the radiator now. Eventually it will probably get stopped up so I'm asking if anyone has had this problem and/or maybe could recommend a good radiator cap that won't do this?

Also could the pieces get out of the radiator and get to the water pump?

 

Can't say that I've seen "repeated" failures like what you have. Might check that lower part of the rad and feel for any "burrs".

The few rad caps I've replaced have all been stant and seemed to work fine.

The passages in the rad are where I think the pieces would get caught, less flow that will decrease cooling. Honestly the water pump would just chew them up and spit them out.

 

if u are running out of antifreeze u might be leaking it or burning it

 

I guess i'll just buy another stant or 2 and keep it checked a couple of times a year for cracking. It just looks like the antifreeze is eating up the rubber, I posted a pic below. Thanks for the replies.

 

One thing came to mind. Pretty sure the 5th gens came with two different rad's from the factory.

Any chance the replacement cap is not for the correct rad, I know the two different rads used different caps.....not sure of the difference n the two. Just throwing another idea/thought out there.