Would a leaky radiator contribute to a high idle and a surge? any help would be awesome

 

I don't think so, but not an expert.

My 94 22RE surges when the outside temperature is below around 40 F. In my case, the problem is the auxiliary air valve. The passages where coolant is supposed to flow is completely packed with crud... a product of me not flushing the cooling system for years at a time.

Aux air valve:

 

Not sure. Do you have all the emissions, vacuum hooked up?

 

yes, A radiator can and will relate directly to a high idle and surge. The auxiliary air valve posted above is directly affected if it gets no coolant or air bubbles. Fix the leak, refill the system and purge it of any air bubbles.