Who on here is running an aluminum radiator?? Have you had any problems with it? Where did you buy it from? Probably buying one to replace my stock one, and just want to know from people using one if it's worth it
I have run 3 from eBay. 2 were for 95 4runners with a V6. All aluminum and half plastic style. I also ran one for a 4 cylinder but forget what year it was for, mid 80s I think. Worst part with the 4runner style is needing to extend the lower radiator hose. And to relocate the heater hose to the other side of the front cover. The radiator cap was also the smaller type. Bolt spacing is correct, just redrilled the lower holes a half inch away. Pretty straight forward. Well worth it. The V6 kind also hangs below the core support. If advice a direct fit or a 79-83 from eBay.
i've used griffin radiators in the past and they are very high quality and will take a hell of a beating lol! but that was in my offroading and hotrod days, now i'm just trying to find the same solution as you.
You will be happy with the quality of any all aluminum style from eBay. They polish up well, or take a sanding and candy paint on the top tank well too. Besides the low clearance and rerouting a few hoses, its a great addition. Even on 95 degree days doing 6500 rpm down the freeway it won't go past 180 on the gauges. I do want an electric fan though. The temps rise from about 150 to 170 or so at long red lights if its above 75 out. Winter time you will want a 195 thermostat to get some heater heat. A 180 will give you luke warm defrost temps. I personally drive year round windows down. If its cold, I wear a jacket. Women like to be all cozy and warm so keep the heater thing in mind for the upcoming bad weather seasons.
