Radiator fins falling out...

[tohox]

Hi,

The truck is running fine, no over heating, no leaks around the radiator either. Just a bit of rust and these ugly fins sticking out at the bottom (some appear to have been pushed in as well). Have been putting them back in place once in a while but since I have most of the front of the truck removed at the moment and have easy access to the radiator I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to fix this besides replacing the radiator.

Thanks!

 

[coldtaco]

I think it’s time to replace

 

[jblueridge]

If it is a matter of holding it together a bit longer, you could solder to tack them in place.

Start looking for a radiator shop.

 

[roscoFJ73]

You could probably get a radiator shop to add some solder to hold them in place while you look for a new one

 

[tohox]

Any cues for a replacement radiator for a '91 PZJ77 ? The original part number is 16400-17100 (appears to be the same model as for the PZJ-70 but not the 73 and 75) . I've seen a few on eBay just not sure it's a good idea to buy without seeing in this case. Would an HZJ77 radiator fit by any chance (part number 16400-17070)? Looks very similar but it might be slightly taller than mine.

Thanks!

 

[roscoFJ73]

I think all the 7* series radiators are much the same size. The 1HZ have a slightly larger lower tank than the 84-90 models with the B , H and F engines but will still fit. These 2 look the same.

PZJ7* radiator

1HZ radiator

 

[tohox]

I think all the 7* series radiators are much the same size. The 1HZ have a slightly larger lower tank than the 84-90 models with the B , H and F engines but will still fit. These 2 look the same.

PZJ7* radiator

View attachment 2521800

1HZ radiator

View attachment 2521822

Oddly, the PZJ77 and PZJ70 share the same rad but the PZJ73 and PZJ75 are different and use the same as the HZJ77. I'm wondering what warrants such differences. I always thought the PZJ77 and HZJ77 were identical except for the engine and transmission.

 

[AirheadNut]

That’s the AC condenser, not the radiator. The coolant tubes are smaller and run vertically in the radiator. I think loosing the fins in the condenser is a common occurrence on these older trucks, my brother’s HDJ81 has lost most of the lowest two rows. It will effect the cooling capability of your AC system, but not the reliability of the vehicle.

 

[tohox]

Ah! I see. It sits right in front of the radiator so I thought it was a single unit. Thanks for clarifying that

 

[jblueridge]

Oh yeah!
When I took my condenser out of the truck, I found the radiator rotting away invisibly on the condenser or forward side.
Might be worth a look.

 

[SnowVersion]

My AC condenser was in similar shape and I had no trouble with the AC - even when running the AC-powered center console refrigerator. Unless you have trouble with your AC not being cool enough, I'd say just try to keep additional fins from falling out. If you do suffer subpar AC performance, a new heat exchanger is probably your best bet.