concerns about "new radiator" when hunting for new 4runner

[Jc12]

Hey guys, its been bitter sweet ever since i sold my 4runner a week ago. I miss it dearly but now get to search for a new one. I am looking for a bone stock low mileage to start a new build. I have found a very clean one with 160KM (100 miles). It had the timing belt, water pump and a new radiator put in about 2 years ago as per current owner. They have had it for 6 months and need something bigger. My obvious concern is the dreaded strawberry milkshake. They hadn't heard the term before when i asked and weren't sure why it had been replaced as they bought it that way. Anything to look at? Is this a legit concern considering it was replaced 2 years ago? Looking forward to hearing some opinions, thanks!

 

[Jc12]

anyone..:help:

 

[pluton]

Auto trans, right?
If the trans been running flawlessly for two years--how many miles, btw?--- then maybe it's fine, but:
people will lie, lie, lie when it comes to getting rid of a car they don't want.
You are correct to be suspicious just as you'd be if the car was 'recently painted'.
That is why service records have value, and why buying a car with service records usually costs you more money.
Have the current owners driven it much? Can they prove the rad went in two years ago, not two weeks ago?

 

[Supermoney]

The next 4runner I get I am replacing the radiator first no matter what they tell me.

A $200~ part with easy install is definitely worth the peace of mind.

 

[amalik]

$200 maybe for a bigger brand name like Denso. I got my new one from 1-800-radiators for $160 and it has a lifetime warranty (Although not Denso or Koyo, it's doing just fine).

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Go drive it. If the trans is working fine, don't worry about it. Plenty of people replace the radiator before the milkshake happens as preventative maintenance.

 

[JayRolla]

The milkshake becomes an issue when it mixes and you dont know about it. If it was caught right away then usually just flushing will fix it. Another thing is it takes a lot of flushing to get all the water out. If you pull the trans dip stick you can see if there is any trace of milkshake. If it looks like regular trans fluid than you are fine.

I just installed my New Koyo on Saturday. I sprung a leak and freaked out but no mix. I found it started leaking at the top cap and not at the bottom by the trans cooler, so it could have jsut been replaced.

 

[Jc12]

thanks for the replies guys, here is the actual truck now that he has loaded pics.

Looks like the front bumper has been bumped - that angle doesn't look right to me.

2001 Toyota 4Runner SR5 | Multimatic(AWD), 4WD Stability Control |