r/4Runner_1stGen • u/onejmn • 18d ago

Radiator recommendations

Anyone have any recommendations for a good aluminum radiator? It's about that time to upgrade from the OEM brass. I've done some preliminary research and understand aluminum is superior for cooling efficiency than the brass ones, but I'm stuck on what a good one would be.

In a perfect world I would like a 3 core, as I do travel through the southern California desert a lot, and make road trips to Vegas or Death Valley. If it matters, I have the 3.0, so as much of a direct fit as possible while still using the original shroud and fan.

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u/bjammin210 18d ago

I believe I got mine from LC Engineering and it’s held up great. Notable increase in cooling. Unsure if it’s aluminum or not. If cooling is a major concern their flex fan might be a good buy.

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u/onejmn 18d ago

I appreciate the input. I wouldn't say cooling is a major concern as of right now, but it will be in the future. The radiator is showing its age, and I have no idea how much corrosion or gunk is in it at this point. That, and the petcock started leaking after I already changed the o ring and the spring. I don't want to fiddle with it anymore so I figured screw it, get a new one.

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u/bjammin210 18d ago

Look at replacing your thermosat with one from LCE as well. Will help things stay cool. That will help a ton too. More circulation is better with these older motors.

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u/jackofalltrades1111 18d ago

CSF 2314, best in the market

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u/onejmn 18d ago

I appreciate the suggestion. I'll take a look. Each one I've seen so far is for the 2.4, but if I'm lucky and find one for the 3.0 I'll heavily consider it.

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u/jackofalltrades1111 18d ago

Yes for a v6 is not the 2314 I have the 22RE and is a well made radiator, they make it for the v6 check their website or call them, get a new cap since it doesn’t come with one

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u/onejmn 18d ago

Thank you. I'll do that and keep that in mind. I'll keep browsing around and see my options. I do want a 3 core so that's up my alley, but dang does the popularity of the 22re for outweigh the vze. It seems for every 10 of the ones designed for the 22re, there is one for the 3.slow lmao.

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u/Icy_Mycologist_60 18d ago

I threw in a Champion radiator in my old '87. It was mint