Potential Radiator Problem?

[tenro1]

Hi all,

I just purchased a 2001 T4R 2wd a couple of days ago. Vehicle has 237,000 miles on it. Overall, the vehicle is working up to be in pretty good shape, and runs great.

This morning, I went to check the radiator fluid in the radiator as the dealer had done a coolant change prior to purchase. When I removed the cap that was on the radiator, it appears to have disentegrated when I twisted the cap off, leaving the inner rubber washer, metal ring, and the rubber insert in the radiator neck. I got the washer and ring out, but that rubber insert is on the bottom of the cap is still in the radiator, and while I could feel it for a minute sticking my finger in there, I cannot get it out.

Is this going to cause a flow problem in the radiator, or can I let it go, cause at this point, I don't think I am going to be able to get it out. I cannot even feel it in there any more.

I ran the vehicle for a bit after this happened (and after having replaced the cap as well...) and no overheating problems I can see. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.

 

[kball]

It's time to replace the rad anyway.

 

[tenro1]

KBall - thanks for the tip - the radiator seems to be fine even in its old age, at least for now. However, you are not really indicating if this is going to cause me an immediate problem......which is really what I am asking.

Thanks,

 

[kball]

I wouldn't think it would cause any immediate problems. But, rad caps don't normally fall apart unless they get pretty rusty which means the coolant hasn't been changed regularly. So with that thought and the whole pink milkshake issue with older rads I would replace the rad and cap together.

 

[tenro1]

Ok - gotcha. Been reading up on the pink milkshake issue. Not seeing that so far. And I have no idea what some of the maintenance has been on the T4R, but, I am assuming none in most cases, and working through it as I go. I have been inspecting all fluids, just looked at the transmission fluid today - it appears to be nice and pink, but not frothy....so I don't think I have the milkshake happening. Rad fluid is clean, and the oil is fresh and clean as well.

It's gonna be a couple months before I can spend the money on a radiator replacement....not sure how much those run for these trucks....any ideas?

At any rate, so far, it is performing....I'll keep my fingers crossed the radiator will hold out until I can lay out the bucks to get it fixed up.

Thanks!