I got a brand new radiator - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

GregElliott · 10-27-2008, 11:49 AM

I have a new radiator and it's aluminum. Should I paint it before I install it?

TBayToyotaBoy · 10-27-2008, 06:36 PM

There's no real need to paint the new rad (I never have--and I've been through dozens of new rads over the years), though I've seen it done before. I wouldn't bother, though. The failure point on most aftermarket rads is where the plastic chambers (the top and bottom "rails") are pressed to the aluminum cores/fins. They generally start leaking from there after several years, but there's nothing you can do to prevent it.

GregElliott · 10-28-2008, 09:08 PM

anymore opinions?

Kep · 10-29-2008, 10:59 AM

The only reason to paint it would be for looks and that would be minimal since it is sitting behind the air conditioning condenser. Plus painting it would reduce the efficiency of the radiator. I can't think of anything the paint would do to protect aluminum. I'd vote "No".

Kep