How to Replace a Radiator in a Toyota Tundra

The radiator in your Toyota Tundra keeps the engine from overheating. If the radiator is damaged or worn out, you must replace it, because running your Tundra with a damaged or leaky radiator can lead to expensive engine damage. If your Voyager needs a new radiator, you may be able to replace it yourself. Here's how to replace the radiator in the 2000 to 2006 model Toyota Tundra.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Resealable container
• Replacement radiator hoses, if necessary
• Replacement radiator
• Torque wrench
• Water
• Engine coolant

1. Remove the engine undercover to provide access to the radiator. Loosen the plug on the bottom of the radiator and drain the engine coolant into a resealable container.

2. Disconnect the hose to the radiator reservoir, and take off the upper radiator hose and lower radiator hose. Inspect the hoses, and if they show signs of wear, replace them. Remove the oil cooler hoses.

3. Detach the clips holding the fan shroud and remove the bolts holding the radiator. Lift the radiator carefully out of the engine compartment.

4. Put the radiator bracket hooks in the radiator support holes and install the new radiator. Torque the bolts according to specifications and reinstall the fan shroud, upper and lower radiator hoses and radiator reservoir hoses.

5. Fill the radiator with a mixture of half distilled water and half engine coolant. Attach the radiator cap very loosely and start the engine. Allow it to run until the engine is warm, then turn it off and check the fluid levels, adding more if necessary.

6. Reinstall the engine undercover and reconnect the negative battery cable.

Tips & Warnings

• If the engine coolant isn't old or contaminated, you can reuse it. If you choose not to recycle the coolant, take it to a garage or hazardous waste center where it can be properly disposed of.
• Always drain engine coolant into a container that can be tightly sealed and clean up any spills immediately. Children and pets can be attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze, which can be fatal if ingested.
• Wear protective clothing, gloves and eyewear when replacing the radiator in your Toyota Tundra. Never open the radiator cap if the temperature of the engine coolant is 100 degrees or more, as serious burns can occur.

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