How to Check Radiator Brand?

[BirdieKing]

I recently lucked out and found an 02 Sport Edition S/C'd near me and picked it up last week.

The only unknown variable with the vehicle is the brand of radiator.. It had been replaced, but both I and the previous owner were unsure on the make/model. I would like to check the quality in an attempt to prevent any 'milkshaking.'

Is there a way to identify the make/model of aftermarket radiators?

 

[gamefreakgc]

Not unless there's a sticker or stamp on it. A picture might help too since lots of us have replaced the radiator over the years and someone might recognize it.

To be honest though, if it's new I'd not worry about it. One thing you can go is take off the cap and look down to the fins. If they look excessively corroded or gunked then maybe you should be concerned but if it looks normal then keep driving and enjoy your supercharged 4Runner.

 

[xcmtb83]

The better question is, why was it replaced in the first place? Was it due to a milkshake that has already occured?

 

[nevada]

I recently lucked out and found an 02 Sport Edition S/C'd near me and picked it up last week.

The only unknown variable with the vehicle is the brand of radiator.. It had been replaced, but both I and the previous owner were unsure on the make/model. I would like to check the quality in an attempt to prevent any 'milkshaking.'

Is there a way to identify the make/model of aftermarket radiators?

unless its got a label, it will be difficult.

I suggest just bypassing the radiator by adding a large external cooler. then you have nothing to worry about.

 

[xcmtb83]

unless its got a label, it will be difficult.

I suggest just bypassing the radiator by adding a large external cooler. then you have nothing to worry about.

Unless the transmission as already been damaged.

 

[BirdieKing]

The better question is, why was it replaced in the first place? Was it due to a milkshake that has already occured?

Why it was replaced is unknown. I bought the truck from the second owner (Toyota Master Mechanic), and all he could tell me is that it isn't factory as he bought it from the first owner like that (he didn't seem worried about it).

The master mechanic did replace the transmission, though. The truck had a planetary gear failure (which leads me to believe that since he replaced the original transmission, a previous milkshake probably did not occur).

I suggest just bypassing the radiator by adding a large external cooler. then you have nothing to worry about.

I've already order a B&M 70268, should be in this week.

 

[gamefreakgc]

The stock radiators are the problem, so if it's been replaced at any point the chance of it happening would be extremely rare. You should be fine.