radiator + foam rubber

[jblueridge]

Was the foam rubber between the sides of the radiator and the a/c condenser and the fan shroud Toyota's idea or someone else's.
I know it helps keep the air flowing through the radiator but it also helps corrosion.

If it's a good thing, can I just stuff some closed cell foam in there?

 

[rojjim]

They are factory installed. When you order a new OE radiator it will have these foams too.
They are not really tough and come off easily. I have replaced some in my cruisers.

 

[Locked79]

They keep air from being pulled from between the ac condenser and radiator. More airflow over condenser to help ac efficiency.

 

[Chester]

Good results using synthetic rubber window gasket. Generic from harbor freight or the like is a cheap solution.