Radiator Checklist

Radiator Checklist

This article was created to assist customers with choosing a radiator for their vehicle which Mishimoto does not directly support.  If a customer wishes to retrofit a Mishimoto aluminum radiator into a vehicle that we do not make products for, Mishimoto suggests following the below guide. When using a product not specifically meant for the customer's vehicle, modification may be unavoidable.

 

Products: Radiators (Automotive Powersports Diesel)

 

Step 1 - Size / Mounting. Mishimoto suggests that the customer measures the OEM radiator.  This can be done with the radiator removed from the vehicle or still installed.  Mishimoto suggests removing the radiator to obtain more accurate measurements. Mishimoto also suggests taking into consideration how the OEM radiator mounts.  Depending on the vehicle and product purchased, modification may be necessary.  Be sure to isolate the radiator with rubber bushings to prevent damage occurring from electrolysis.

 

Step 2 - Inlet and Outlet Ports / Hoses. We suggest the customer note where the inlet and outlet ports are located on the OEM radiator. If the ports are in a relatively stock location, there is a possibility of reusing the OEM hoses. Also, the customer should confirm the outer diameter of the OEM ports so that the hoses will fit on the radiator.  If the customer is forced to run universal hoses, we suggest purchasing the Mishimoto Universal Flexible Radiator Hose Kit.

 

Step 3 - Radiator Cap. Does the OEM radiator have a filler neck and radiator cap on it?  If so, Mishimoto highly recommends purchasing an aluminum radiator which features a filler neck and cap. The radiator cap is responsible for maintaining proper pressure within the radiator.  This portion of the cooling system should not be deleted.

 

Step 4 - Fans. Since the customer is planning on installing a radiator not meant for the vehicle, it is likely that the OEM fans will not bolt onto the new Mishimoto aluminum radiator. The customer is suggested to purchase Mishimoto Universal Electric Fans or a Mishimoto Fan Shroud if available for the radiator being purchased. The customer can either wire the fans into the existing fan harness or purchase the Mishimoto Adjustable Fan Controller Kit.

 

Step 5 - Sensors. Many newer vehicles have sensors threaded directly into the radiator to read temperatures and to turn on and off the fans. If the OEM radiator has sensors threaded into the radiator, the customer will need to find a way for these sensors to reach the coolant system for an accurate reading.   If the customer has a fan switch in the OEM radiator, they can purchase the Mishimoto Adjustable Fan Controller Kit in order to have the fans operate as they should from the factory.

 

Step 6 - Miscellaneous. Mishimoto recommends inspecting the OEM radiator to ensure that nothing else is overlooked.

Does the air conditioning condenser bolt directly onto the radiator? If so, the customer will need to fabricate a mounting solution for the condenser.

Does the OEM radiator have any additional ports? If so, the customer will need to fabricate a way to include these lines to mimic the stock application.

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