The radiator on my '95 4runner V6 is rotting out. I plan on replacing it myself, but haven't done this before. The mechanics are simple enough, I'm just curious about parts.

I'm wondering how non-toyota radiators stack up to true OEM radiators. They all claim to be to OEM-spec, but I'm curious. Are any aftermarket versions better than toyota? Are they all worse? Prices seem to be in the $140-$200 range. Does this sound about right?

Also, I figure I can just take my old hoses and clamps to Autozone and they'll find me matching replacements, right?

thanks all,
-ohio

 

Just remember, you get what you pay for. A radiator is crucial to your trucks well being, and the 3.0 is an engine which does not like heat. If you buy an aftermarket radiator, make sure you check the AT cooling lines on the bottom, and ensure it has a drain petcock. Some aftermarket radiators use plastic bottoms. Get a OE radiator, and it will fit. Replace your hoses, thermostat and radiator cap at the same time and your truck will be happy.
-Toddb
1985 4Runner. 5M-GE swap underway
1985 Cressida.
1968 Corvette

 

Yeah, What he said.
I also look to see if there is a heavy duty version avail too. Sometimes you can get extra cooling, or an A/C version to give you even better capacity (cooling).

 

Last summer I replaced my 93 4R radiator with a Heavy Duty aftermarket replacement with a lifetime warranty. Under $200 installed. It actually looks bigger than the stocker...

 

You might what to try what I did...

Drive down your favorite busy road and have some a**hole pull out in front of you so you T-bone him. Viola! New radiator, grill, bumper, etc.!!

I won't mention the second method I used...:pat:

 

Try radiators.com

I bought a radiator from them for my 92 Toyota 4x4. Please do some studying before you make your purchase. Good luck.

 

I have the 'Performance Radiator' brand and it's holding up well.

Here's the link to the one you need;
Perfect fit radiator

Salue

 

I picked up an aftermarket radiator($172) at the local Car Quest auto parts, and a new Hayden 16" fan ($75) and thermo fan control ($66) and installed it myself. It took all in all like 4 hours to drain the antifreeze, remove the old radiator and old electric cooling fan, and replace the radiator. I also had to rewire the new control unit and I used split loom tube and electrical tape to make it look all "professional." After refilling the radiator, and starting the engine and running the heater, I finally got the thermostat to open and the fan to kick on. It has been like a week now, and it works great. By the way I had to replace the cooling fan, which died and almost caused me to blow the head gasket while I was stuck on traffic on a freeway offramp in Lynnwood WA. I did a less than perfect job on the previous fan, and the bouncing around really ripped up the cooling vanes on the radiator, which is why reason for the replacement.