Hello All :) Question

I have a 1997 Toyota Tacoma 4WD, 2.7L 4-cylinder, 5-spd. I need to know if a radiator for a 1996 tacoma v6 (all the info I have) will fit into my truck.

Im also unsure how to tell if the new radiator is for a manual or automatic transmission.

Thank you ahead of time for the help everyone!


- Daniel

 

Thank you! Below is a pic of the new radiator. I'm assuming it's for an automic judging by the looks of it. Sigh just dont know what to do

 

*bump*

 

That is what you need, although I remember the lines from the tranny being threaed into the ports on the radiator, I guess they only need clamps nowdays

 

Perfect. Now I just need to find someone in Atlanta to install it for me

 

It's only 4 bolts man. Super easy to install. Well 8 bolts I guess as you have to take off the fan shroud too.

 

'

I just wish I was more mechanically inclined. Im just scared I suppose. Ive never done anything to this truck on my own except change the oil. im also worried about the implications of this not being a radiator for a manual transmission. What happens to the ports(right word there?) at the bottom since no hoses will go to them?

Thanks again for help. Im very appreciative

 

Nice thanks! now Im just trying to get up the nerve to knock this out on my own!

 

The "ports" are for automatic transmission lines to hook into as previously stated by others. The auto fluid runs through a separate section in the radiator in order to cool the fluid for the auto transmission. Basically an oil cooler built within the radiator. You can install the radiator and leave them unhooked or you can put some rubber caps over the nipple ends and call it good (just to keep dirt out).

You don't have to worry that your antifreeze will leak out of them or anything. The auto trans cooler portion and the engine coolant portion are two individual parts to the radiator. Systems are not connected. Otherwise people would be having issues with trans fluid in the coolant or coolant in the trans fluid all the while.

Replacement wise the job is pretty straight forward. If you have the factory repair manual or a haynes it will walk you through it. Should be just basic hand tools. Take the opportunity to replace hoses and maybe the thermostat while you are there. You'll have the radiator drained anyway. Of course, plenty of help on this site.

You can download the factory manual here if you don't have any repair manual to guide you.

Pic looks like a used radiator you are looking at (could be wrong). If budget is an issue you might try RockAuto for one. Had a quick look for what fits yours and you can get a new one for about $100. Keep in mind also that you have to pay shipping, but the one I looked at showed $100 shipped to my location. If you look online you can find discount codes for Rock Auto that get you 5 percent off also. Just a thought.

 

The DIY section tells you how to drain and re-fill your radiator. Thats the main part, have a friend or somebody help you.
Or bring it to a shop and pay the labor.

 

I really appreciate the help guys! Today is the day

 

Just be careful with the new radiator, you don't want to puncture it on anything sharp and pointy then find the leak after its all put back together. Good luck!

 

Got the skid plate off and am draining the old radiator now. I just noticed that the old radiator cap will not fit the new radiator. crap

 

Im having a very tough time trying to get enough leverage to lossen up the bolts holding the old radiator in place. They are on tight!


thoughts anyone?

 

A small longer ratchet should give you enough leverage. If not find a longer tube to slip over the handle for more leverage.

Also i know this sounds dumb, but make sure you turning it the right way, the bolts are facing you which can confuse some ppl. Just double check.