Stupid radiator question: What is this?

[loconzly]

At the risk of looking foolish, I need to ask if I have a normal radiator setup in my '05 4Runner Sport? I was looking at threads to learn how to install a tranny cooler, so I popped my hood to take a look at space available.

I noticed that my radiator seems to have two layers. Is this normal? The front "layer" is really large, almost the same size as the back layer. There is enough space between them for me to put my fingers in-between.

I took some pics for you. What is this? Is this a normal setup to have these two layers? Thanks!

A view from underneath:

 

[The Yin]

Different part

I'm not really an auto guy, but I think the one in the front is actually the AC condenser.
If I remember correctly, I only learned this as I was installing my Tranny cooler a year or so ago. At first I though maybe a previous owner had installed something extra.

 

[Brian3676]

At the risk of looking foolish, I need to ask if I have a normal radiator setup in my '05 4Runner Sport? I was looking at threads to learn how to install a tranny cooler, so I popped my hood to take a look at space available.

I noticed that my radiator seems to have two layers. Is this normal? The front "layer" is really large, almost the same size as the back layer. There is enough space between them for me to put my fingers in-between.

I took some pics for you. What is this? Is this a normal setup to have these two layers? Thanks!

A view from underneath:

The front one is your A.C. condenser. The back, thicker one, is your radiator.

 

[gtfour43]

That's your A/C condenser sir

 

[loconzly]

Ok, now I feel a little goofy, but that's how we learn. The a/c condenser, thank you! I was hoping it was some sort of super-duper transmission cooler, but nope. Back to shopping.

thanks again!

 

[AuSeeker]

Ok, now I feel a little goofy, but that's how we learn. The a/c condenser, thank you! I was hoping it was some sort of super-duper transmission cooler, but nope. Back to shopping.

thanks again!

Yes no question is a stupid question if you don't know the answer!!

Now if you wanted to do without your AC, you could probably rig that condenser up as a super-duper trans cooler!!! :shrug:

 

[ghs215]

correct me if im wrong, the radiator has a built in tranny cooler? you should look on the inside drivers side for tranny fluid lines going into it??

 

[BlackWorksInc]

correct me if im wrong, the radiator has a built in tranny cooler? you should look on the inside drivers side for tranny fluid lines going into it??

V6 has an integrated one if I recall, V8's have a separate unit that bolts onto the driver's side in front of the condenser.

 

[Phils4th]

Don't feel bad OP. Put it in front of the condenser. Run the cooler "inline" with the existing one in the radiator.

They use a heater/cooler in the radiator because trans oil temp puts less wear on parts when it is hot, but not overheating. So be mindful to never floor a cold engine.

 

[XR250rdr]

V6 has an integrated one if I recall, V8's have a separate unit that bolts onto the driver's side in front of the condenser.

V8 has both. Fluid runs through cooler in the radiator then the secondary trans cooler.

 

[loconzly]

I've been reading a lot of posts and DYI guides on installing the transmission cooler the last few days.

I took my skid plate off and have inspected the area quite well to guide myself mentally through the installation of the cooler. I've marked my in/out transmission lines and am pretty much ready to go.

Buying the cooler today and will get it in there. I'm almost ready for camping season!