Combine Timing belt + radiator replacement? (18 Viewers)

[Jack90210]

Ended up doing just the radiator + hoses, will come back to the timing belt. Had to get the job finished in time for a trip, and having never done a TB on this engine, wanted plenty of time. I can now see how it would be easier (but not required) to have the radiator out for the TB job.

I used Zerex Asian Red full strength + distilled water. It seems to match Toyota specs exactly. Did a full flush by opening both block drains. The system took in exactly its full capacity, absolutely no trouble. The overflow bottle settled down to a consistent level after a few days of driving and the temp is consistently normal.

View attachment 3950891

This is the old radiator, forward face. That debris is what was left over AFTER I attempted to clean it in place when I got the truck.

Yep, that's Every. Single. Pulled. Radiator that I see pics of.

Kind of explains the "you should get a [insert Brand X radiator here], they run so much cooler!" posts.

My advice for anyone changing the rad is to flush the AC evap coil from behind while you have the opportunity.