I've been reading a lot of threads about the radiator milkshake issue common to our trucks. What I have yet to see is a common replacement radiator that is preferred by the T4R experts. I'm nearing 120K on mine and figured I would replace the radiator just to be safe. Are replacements normally of the same poor design as the stock one, or is there a better option I should know about that won't break the bank?
Radiator replacement
- Thread starter sonjason
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BrianSD_42
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I just replaced the radiator on my truck. I purchased a Koyo through a local truck shop. The total price for parts, install and taxes was $345. I think I got a good price for Southern California; it could have been worse.
I think Koyo is the direct replacement. They also make parts for Toyota and dealerships often buy from Koyo directly - so I am told.
I did it as preventitive maintenance but I am at 197k on my 1997 4Runner 4x4 Limited. I have never had a radiator issue but I figured that 200k was a good time to do it.
Good luck!
I think Koyo is the direct replacement. They also make parts for Toyota and dealerships often buy from Koyo directly - so I am told.
I did it as preventitive maintenance but I am at 197k on my 1997 4Runner 4x4 Limited. I have never had a radiator issue but I figured that 200k was a good time to do it.
Good luck!
maxspeed96ct
New member
I just replaced mine with a koyo, was 124 shipped from ebay. Fit great , pretty easy install.
I think removing the grill was the toughest part for me.
I think removing the grill was the toughest part for me.
My first post on here. I just replaced my radiator last week. I got my t4r last summer and now has 125,000 miles. I was worried about the "pink milkshake" as well. Very easy to do, cost me just under $200.00 for rad.(carquest brand),hoses,thermostat. Only took a few hours including a flush.
DH4Runner
New member
DH4Runner
New member
you are probably right though, the best insurance would be a new radiator plus an external cooler...
Pikeman
New member
If you had read all the threads on Radiator replacement you would have found everyone mentions using the Koyo A1998 radiator. Koyo was used as the OEM Toyota for years and is still used in the performance line of Toyotas. Nissan also uses them as their OEM radiator and their performance line as well. I went on GoParts.com and purchased on for my replacement. It is very high quality and not going to worry about it for years to come.
While it is the same design as the OEM one with Coolant and ATF coolers built in it is possible to still get the Milkshake. That being said the Milkshake happens when the tubes corode and develop an internal leak allowing the two fluids to mix, this takes time to happen. The only way to avoid the Milkshake is to use an external Tranny cooler and bypass the the one in the radiator.
While it is the same design as the OEM one with Coolant and ATF coolers built in it is possible to still get the Milkshake. That being said the Milkshake happens when the tubes corode and develop an internal leak allowing the two fluids to mix, this takes time to happen. The only way to avoid the Milkshake is to use an external Tranny cooler and bypass the the one in the radiator.