I should be at 200,000 miles in about six years so about the same time as you so your recommendation is a new radiator at the second timing belt water pump change sounds reasonable
I've been working on three rigs this summer. My 01LC 167K (overly maintained for past ~110k/13 years), 01LX 214K (minimally & improperly maintained) & 00LX 263K (under & improperly maintained). The color of each radiator plastic top was progressively a lighter brown with miles. The heater Tee's were also progressively a lighter brown, most notable driver side. The age was not that much different, and even thought these turned lighter brown from a nice clean black with more miles, I felt heat & improper maintenance had big effect as well.
-01LC radiator looks good. I did replace Tee's last week, they surprisingly looked good, best was PS I'll save it as a spare.
-01LX radiator looks ok but color is light brown, but has improved with plastic conditioner. I'll do tee's during next flush.
-00LX not only needed a radiator, Tee's fell apart when I touched them.
I've seen many reports of DS tee being in the worst condition. DS is hottest side, so for sure heat plays a big role in the plastics' condition.
I think not only miles but running hot, mixing coolants, not flushing at factory intervals and local environment (desert to artic) all play a big role. Early warring sign is color, but even that can be misleading if plastic conditioner has been used.
I'm thinking closer to 250K miles. But properly maintained and inspecting trumps miles in my book. Additionally one must be alert to that sweet smell of antifreeze. Once I smell that, I'm looking for any clues. First; has level gone down when cold (engine & ambient temp) Second; Toyota red trails' of pink flakes at any leak, just one more reason to use the Red in my book.
So....I have not gotten the box but I think I scored a Denso. Set up an alert on Rock Auto and for the second time in a week it popped up.
I instantly put in my order. It was now $12 more than the week before but I got an email it is on its way to me.
So if you want a denso this is the way I scored one.
Can't wait to see what you get, let us know if it's the real deal!
