Legacy 4Runner

I've got an 89 (production date: 2/1989) 4Runner V6 (3VZ-E) first generation 2 door body. I needed to replace the radiator and was sent a radiator that supposedly fit this engine and year. When measured, it was 1 inch taller, with the filler cap on the driver side. The original that's currently in (it was never changed until now) is 1 inch shorter and the cap is in the center. I sent the radiator back with detailed photos of my original radiator to illustrate what I need. They indicated that a model was found (vendor: CSF 2055) and sent it. It had the same measurements and specs as the original however it is for a 4 cyl 2.4L engine 4Runner. The question is this: was my 4Runner built with using the 4 cyl radiators until later in the development of the V6 engine and is it safe to use this radiator? All of the shops are puzzled about this but indicate that I can use this.

Thanks.

phorunninduke

my 3vz-e rad ( from an 89 4runner )had the cap in the middle, as dose the rad for my 22re. the only difference appearent to me is the 22re is about 1.5inches thinner. I am actually going to put the radiator from the 3vz-e into my 22re truck to help it run cooler.

my bud also has an 89 4runner with 3vz-e, also has the cap in the middle as well.

Yoter

My guess is the shop that sent it to you has limited part inventory software. Meaning it cant figure out that in 89 Toyota offered a V6 over the 4banger. I am guessing their software only shows the 4banger. Cant you order a rad. for a 90 or 91 and at worst fab it to fit?

Legacy 4Runner

90-91 4Runner V6 radiators will not fit in an V6 89. The engine bay dimensions for the V6 89 are based off the pick-up. I tried to put a 90-91 radiator and the bolt pattern barely lined up. Also, since it was 1 inch taller the cap stood higher. When I put the hood down-- SLAM! it bent the cap and the top tank of the radiator.

Legacy 4Runner

Thanks for verifying yor V6 radi cap with mine. Looks like they may have redesigned it shortly after the new body style came (89 1/2 - 90 4door) Good luck.

phorunninduke

well then they sent you a radiator from a 3vz-e second gen 4runner v6, opposed to 3ve-e first gen 4 runner. ( 3vz-e over lapped 1st and second gen 4runners ) I would guess 90-91 pickup radiator would work in your 4runner however. I wouldnt even bother with the 4cyl rad because its qutie a bit smaller than the one your supposed to have, and I am putting the v6 one in for my 4cyl engine anyway.

Legacy 4Runner

I guess that's my question. Did Toyota use a 4 cyl radiator when they first released the V6 in the first generation 4Runners?? The measurements of the replacement radiator is identical to that of the 4 cylinder with the exception of the upper hose inlet-- looks like the factory fabricated towards an angle to accomodate the upper hose.

Yoter

no no no tricks are for kids silly rabbit. The 2nd gen 3vze rad. has a cap location in the top center not on the top side. they prolly sent him a rad. for a huffy 10 speed. doesnt your rad have a part number to copy down and give to them?

Legacy 4Runner

The part number from the original was provided to them as well as a photo of the original radi. The radiator provided was with the cap on the top driver side is what came up-- which did not fit my vehicle because it is a 1st generation 4Runner. 2nd generation 4runners had a larger engine bay than 1st generation.

Yoter

there use to be a part number thread here but i cant seem to find it. if you can find it you may try matching the numbers. did you called the dealer to get part numbers for what they call for? also try wrecking yards.

mtnfreak

Bringing this one back from the dead. Has anyone with a late 1st gen 4Runner had any luck replacing the radiator? I keep having the same problem - 1" too tall and filler neck on the wrong side. I've looked at rads for 4Runners & Pick-ups, 88's and 89's, at least 5 different manufacturers. I'll be headed to the stealership if I can't work something out on Monday. I won't be forking over $600, though - I just want to look at what they've got and ask what it will take to get a price break.

mtnfreak

OK - skip the dealer and go straight to performanceradiator.com - don't even think about trying anyone else. Not even the exalted Radiator Barn - they sent me 2 wrong rads (but were very understanding about the returns). This afternoon I picked up a rad from Performance and it's identical to the OEM unit (as far as I can tell). No re-drilling mounting holes or fab'ing fan shroud holes. No searching for a 'customizable' hose. Well worth the extra $50 and the trip through 5pm I-25 traffic.