First Tundra Radiator Replacement

Hi All,

picked up my first (2007 2nd gen) tundra. Everyhthing seems solid but the previous owner told me there was a pinhole radiator leak which i can't find...

In any case i will be replacing the Radiator, water pump, hoses etc... just be on the safe side.

Truck has 200k+ miles on it.


Two questions:

1. Any recommendations on OEM vs aftermarket radiators, if so which brand/model? I understand there are some issues with the integrated tanks on the OEMs? Is it worth to go to aftermarket Alum with alum tank to avoid this issue?

2. What other preventive maintanance should i consider while i got the radiator out? From both convenience of access and due dilligiance point of view?

thanks in advance...

 

The $120 Denso from Rockauto has performed flawlessly in my 2007.

 

Thanks will check out Denso

Is there any maintenance that is easy and worth doing while the radiator is out?

 

Nothing else besides the drive belt and tensioner unless you want to rip into the water pump..

edit: The drive belt and tensioner can be done without removing the radiator but would certainly be easier without it.

 

Might as well do the thermostat while you are there.

 

I'd add: since you are already opening the coolant can of worms, open one of the engine drain cocks to get out as much old coolant as you can.

 

Dammit in the same boat leaking rad from somewhere....?! Will check out rockauto as well....

 

Location or pix of drain cocks?

 

There's a video on the youtubes. I did the rad and passenger side drain. Driver side drain is a bit harder to get to. Didn't want to chance stripping a brass bolt. Still used up almost 3 gallons.

 

I'll throw this into the mix.
https://www.tundras.com/threads/help-with-part-number.49834/#post-1310112

Hopefully your not in the Salt Belt, but i'd be replacing this on anything that is 2010 or later. (or looks bad).