Can the radiator be repaired?

[dcbc991]

Hi all.

Does anyone know if it's possible to replace just the plastic tanks on these radiators in the 4th generation Camry?

Yesterday after a 20 minute drive, I could smell antifreeze when I exited the vehicle. After opening the hood to inspect, I noticed coolant is just starting to weep along the top of the radiator at the junction where the plastic tank joins the aluminum. It seems the seal is beginning to fail at that junction.

A few months ago when I did the timing belt/oil seals/water pump replacement, I had noticed that the plastic tank along the top of my radiator looked brittle with some cracking anyway. So I kinda knew that the time was near for either a possible radiator replacement or repairs.

It has been my experience on other cars that I've owned that aftermarket radiators are never quite as good as what the factory put in. Generally speaking, the design is different where the drain plug is eliminated or the inlets for the transmission cooler lines are mismatched, etc.

If it's not possible to repair, anyone recommend a particullar brand or parts house?

Any response is appreciated. Thanks.

[bdy0003]

By all means, replace the radiator. I believe I have Koyo on mine and others suggested that this is a reputable third party manufacturer. Its also not that expensive for a new one.

[csaxon]

Koyo is an OEM supplier for Toyota and Honda.
The replacement should have all ports matching the original radiator with new brass fittings for the transmission supply and return lines. Ensure the bracket mounts for the two fan shrouds match as well. Some replacement radiators do not come with a drain port and plug but the better ones do.

[carsrus]

Order KYC Branded rad off rockauto. It should come as a Koyo since KYC is just a distributor.

Rad,hoses and thermostat are around 120$ shipped. You can epoxy the crack in the tank but I wouldent gamble it.

[dcbc991]

Thanks.

[JohnGD]

I think that's TYC brand on rockauto. Many members have used it and they actually rebox KoyoRad radiators (that could change at any time). These are excellent aftermarket rads. I'd also change out the radiator cap as well.

http://www.koyorad.com/

Koyorad is aftermarket only. Toyota uses Denso and GM Harrison radiators.

OP may be able to use this as a temporary fix (it can be difficult at the tank-aluminum joint however) before the new rad and Toyota red coolant with 50% distilled water arrive. Make sure to follow directions and keep surfaces clean and dry before applying. This works well with plastic tank cracks:
http://www.permatex.com/products/aut...Repair_Kit.htm

[Dodgertown]

OEM Denso radiator is $87 + shipping from here http://www.densoproducts.com/results...umber=221-0500

TYC from rockauto or amazon is a re-boxed KOYO 100%.