Radiator looks like it was cut

I am replacing my leaking factory radiator with a denso radiator based on reviews from TW forums. Anyways, Amazon had the best price and free shipping so I ordered it from them. The radiator arrived with what looks like a saw cut in the top aluminum support channel about 6” from the side. I demanded amazon send out a replacement which they did and the second radiator from them has the same saw cut in the channel. The factory radiator doesnt have these cuts so I am mot sure why they would be there. Has anyone else experienced this?

 

It’s a relief cut/expansion joint. It should look perfectly straight like it was factory rather than some shmoe cutting a break in that top support.

 

Example

 

It looks about like that cut but why would the radiator need that expansion cut if the factory one doesn't have one? That channel helps provides vertical support for the fins and tubes which can sag over time.

 

This is apparently a thing. I had the same experience in my Gladiator. See post #387 and the manufactures explanation in post #398. On the Gladiator this is supposed to be a 'fix' to the radiator not being mounted with isolator bushings to accommodate flex. If there are no bushings to allow play the radiator cannot account for flex, meaning it will crack and leak. The cuts are to allow the radiator to flex. I don't like it one bit as it seems like a hack solution that may compromise the radiator. Bushings shouldn't be an issue on the 2nd Gen Tacoma. I'd suggest looking at a CSF performance unit instead, I ran one on my 2nd Gen and it was an outstanding improvement and also came without being cut up.

@memario1214 this might be a new trend.