I've got a 1998 4Runner 4wd w/ 3.4L. There is a cross-member of the frame that goes in front of the radiator. That cross-member dips somewhat toward the radiator and somewhat blockier piece of the cross-member appears to be very close to the radiator, if not abutting it. Is this normal or is this cross-member likely bent? If it is bent and is closer to the radiator than it should be, how much of a concern is the possibility that some significant bump on the road might cause some damage to the radiator?

 

without some measurements or pictures .

My close could be a lot tighter then your close or just the opposite

I don`t know about that year 4Runner but on my 2000 Tacoma I have the radiator supported by my custom made cross member.

This is the all metal 3 row radiator

 

Thanks for the reply. The cross-member is pretty darn close, lets just say the cross-member is touching the front of the radiator (well, a blocky non-metallic piece that appears to be attached to the cross-member is pretty much touching the front of the radiator).