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Factory Radiator Thickness

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by NickB_01TRD, Jul 1, 2021.

  1. Jul 1, 2021 at 11:56 PM
    #1
    NickB_01TRD

    NickB_01TRD [OP] You don't need less cars, just more driveway.

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    So after seeing different posts about pink milkshake this and cracked radiator that I decided it would probably be best to have my radiator replaced when I get my frame replaced at the dealer since it is theoretically free labor. Problem is it seems like the Denso 221-0517 that everyone on here swears by has a lot of Amazon reviews ( I know not the most reliable) stating that the core is thinner than the factory rad and holds less coolant therefore not cooling as well. It is stated to be 1.25 in thick but I don't have a great way to compare my factory one and determine thickness while it is in the truck. Wondering if anyone had any good hands on experience with this or may recall the thickness of the OEM radiator. Thanks!
    Truck is 2001 AC V8 4x4 TRD with tow package.
     
  2. Jul 2, 2021 at 12:52 AM
    #2
    Tundra2

    Tundra2 Zoinked

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    I've never read that the Denso replacement (who made your oem radiator that says toyota) is thicker/thinner than an exact replacement (minus it saying toyota and toyota surcharge)

    @empty_lord might know more about this, or have 8 or 9 spares laying around to measure for you.
     
  3. Jul 2, 2021 at 1:30 AM
    #3
    NickB_01TRD

    NickB_01TRD [OP] You don't need less cars, just more driveway.

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    If you look at other brand radiators on rockauto some of them are listed as 1.4 inches thick. The thickness difference may have no negative effects if it's such a slight amount. Just something I wanted to be sure of. I only see a few things pointing towards this actually being an issue. I just don't have a great way to make sure on my own.
     
  4. Jul 2, 2021 at 7:23 AM
    #4
    empty_lord

    empty_lord They see me rollin'

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    custom body work, Billies with taco ARB springs, Icon AAL, TRD FJ trail team wheels, 2019 Toyota 86 radio, Blacked out interior, Added factory power everything, heater mirrors, ETC
    Sadly I have none to measure short notice
     
  5. Jul 2, 2021 at 8:38 AM
    #5
    tvpierce

    tvpierce Formerly New Member

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    The old one I took off my '00 (and is still sitting in my garage) is 1.25" thick at the metal part of the radiator. I can't readily measure the Denso currently on the truck without disassembling some stuff. (sorry)
     
  6. Jul 2, 2021 at 9:02 AM
    #6
    Desert Dog

    Desert Dog Nobody rides for free

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    If it makes you feel any better about purchasing the Denso I recently installed one on my truck along with a new OEM thermostat, hoses and coolant and have been putting it through the paces in and out of traffic with the a/c off and a/c on here in Az where the temps have been between 104*-117* daily with no issues.
     
  7. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:23 AM
    #7
    dt325ic

    dt325ic Member

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    That Denso 221-0517 radiator is fine, don't worry about the Amazon reviews. I've used one and had no issues. Denso made the original radiators too. The difference is the originals were made in Michigan, and the 221-0517 is made in their factory in China.

    If you want, the dealer offers a lower cost Toyota branded radiator ($220). The part number is 16410-AZ018. I say lower cost because the OE radiator part number is 16400-0F020 and its about $500.

    A lot of the aftermarket radiators are garbage. Some are ok, but its hard to sift through the junk to find the jewels. Stick with the Denso or one of the two from the dealer (although I would have a really hard time paying $500 for the OE one).
     
    Schcoman likes this.
  8. Jul 3, 2021 at 6:12 AM
    #8
    N84434

    N84434 In the Frozen Tundra

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    Milwaukee WI.
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