Gotta replace the radiator/Core support for my 86 yota pickup. Pretty sure that its spot welded. Has anyone done it? Is it a pain? What all do I need for tools and what all will I need to do?

 

I've looked at it just to get a feel for what's involved. From what I could tell from my quick glance is that it would be pretty easy to remove with a decent spot weld drill.

I plan on removing mine for the motor swap that will eventually happen once life stops throwing me curve balls. LOL.

 

lol, yeah cutting all those spot welds is a royal pain! the welding back together is pretty easy. if your truck is wrecked, go for it!

 

Thanks guys. Looks like trip to welding shop or harbor freight got spot wels drill bit then few cut off wheels. Gonna get all parts 1st then start putting it together. Winter is parts collection time since all work is got to be done in backyard . Joy of no garage, not even a car port

 

By far the best spot weld cutters I ever used were Snap On .

They are not cheap but less time spent replacing cutters was worth it for me.

I always used a 1/8" drill for my pilot hole . Have lots of those the shorter the better.

 

Thanks Wyo. Will see about finding a Snap On guy

 

Any time I've drilled spot welds, I just used a center punch and made a divot in the center of the spot. Then commence the drilling with the spot weld driller. Worked great every time. There's actually an article in 4WD Toyota Owner Magazine this month about drilling spot welds and two good bits they used, but they highly recommended them. I'll look at the brand when I get home and post it up.

I wish they'd go monthly on that magazine!

 

Will have to get that one. Haven't got any of the 4wd Toyota magazines

 

Core support is EASY to remove. You do not need any spot weld cutters. Just bring some drill bits. You have to unbolt the frame mounts, A/C brackets, power steering cooler line, headlights and wiring.

James