Radiator Suggestions 2004 3.4 Tacoma

Hey guys. Just wanted any suggestions or expirience on radiators bought from autoshop stores.

I don't have time to purchase an OEM radiator online so I'm going to one of my local auto stores today.

Which radiator would you guys recommend to buy?

Here are my local store options:
Duralast
Murray's
Carquest
NAPA'S Brand.
Thank you.


Thank you.

 

The only direct experience I've had with replacement radiators is with AutoZone years ago, and it worked fine for my '92 pickup back then. Many of these will likely come from the same supplier. I'd just go with the place you like dealing with best as there's likely not much difference in the actual product.

 

I would go with NAPA.

Napa has really reduced the quality to compete with Advanced and Auto zone.

I run the same Radiator Cooper Brass in all my vehicles.

 

Are you suggesting he stay away from NAPA?

 

No just inspected things real well .

 

Napa

call around though might be able to get an OEM one

 

1-800-Radiator

 

I just bought a Murray but I wanted a Denso.

 

Just go Denso.

I did that with the Taco and 4R; for the Land Cruiser I went with Liland (aluminum) and it's impressive but maybe more than you're willing to spend.

 

Go napa, they sell Denso

 

Denso.

Just be aware that you might have to reuse your old side brackets.

 

Call ahead and see if what you want is in stock. Unless it fits a bizillon makes and models, it probably won't be.

Ask if it's in their warehouse and when will it arrive.

With the supply chain mess, it could be that online order would be as fast or faster. You just don't know these days.

 

Well....I checked and the local napa's here have the denso's.....in stock today......

$317.99/ Each

Radiator DEN 2213138 | Buy Online - NAPA Auto Parts (napaonline.com)


The napa line one is $215............

 

$158 Denso

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=4722549&cc=1418453&pt=2172

 

And not a big denso fan......if you buy one of these.....count on replacing again in 5 or 6 years....

Always fails on the top crimp on the hot side.....

Unfortunately I have a brand new one in the box.....

 

What ever happened to everyone swapping to that aluminum champion rad ? Did we collectively stop using them ?

 

Many threads complaining about their lack of consistency; some last 3 years give or take (sometimes less) and others for a long time.

It's a gamble.

 

Really? I have a 3rz Denso (shorter overall) in my SC 5vz, extremely heavy truck and now pushing 40" tires in the extreme CA 110 degree heat average with no issue. Been well over 6 years now too, same radiator. This truck is not a pavement princess btw, it get abused offroad.

 

Here's what they look like after couple years.....not sure if regular flushes can undo that......

you end up with localized heating in that upper intake area......
the metal expands......and the plastic top does not........

The way everyone's dealt with it.....buy another denso for $110.....no big deal...
problemmm is.....they're not $110 anymore.......rats......

 

It is so difficult just trying to read what you type.