Why is OEM Engine Cooling System Better?

Folks,

Has anyone had any experience comparing OEM thermostats verses Aftermarket thermostats? Our 100 currently is running a NAPA thermostat and am getting ScanGauge coolant temps of between 198 and 202* in our current midwest heat wave. Occasionally it will hit 204-206* pulling long hills, but quickly drops back down. The system is in need of a refresh as it is running older Prestone coolant and the radiator is original. I've got an OEM thermostat unit on order, but wanted to pose the question.

As for the radiator, mine is original and in fair shape. However, I have noticed that there is a decent size area of fins that have been bent over, seemingly impeding airflow. I surmise that this damage occurred when the TB service was completed. Would it be worth the time going through and "unbending" the damaged fins.

Thoughts?

Thanks I did not take it on much of a drive. I spent about 20-30 minutes letting it idle with the cap off and the front end elevated to bleed off any air in the system. It only ever got to 188*.

About two weeks ago when I installed the Napa thermostat I did the same procedure and the temps topped out at about 197* during the bleeding process.

I'll follow up once I've had a full drive cycle to see if temps have changed.

Additionally I have a new OEM radiator cap on its way. I think so! I get on my soapbox and beat the drum often in mud on this.

Proper care of coolant system is the most import PM we can do. It is right up their if not more important than lubes and filters. I'm seeing more and more blown engine due to coolant issues in our aging fleet. For the non-heavy duty wrencher, that's a ~$13K repair bill at a Toyota Dealer

I've developed a theory, that running coolant system just 1/2 inch or so low is causing premature heater tee and radiator top plastic failure. That air gap leaves plastic exposed to air, out of the coolant which has a plasticizer to keep plastic health. That the post 03 pink (Toyota SLL) aren't faring as well as systeming using Red (Toyota LL coolant) which are seeming to fairing better. This may be due to coolant itself, or more likely due to longer flush cycle of SLL which I don't advocate.

I use only Toyota products (coolant & parts) in coolant system period. I check coolant very often and recommend everyone do the same. The only exception is radiator. @LC I too follow your logic. The importance of proper cooling system maintenance should be discussed and stressed as often as needed.

I have an update on my coolant system maintenance. My wife took it to work today. Approximately 70, mostly highway miles. She observed ScanGauge coolant temperatures between 188-190*. I am satisfied.

My next step is a new OEM radiator cap and coolant flush with Toyota Red over this weekend or next, followed by a new OEM fan clutch.

My radiator appears to be an OEM original. It has not discolored and Aside from the bent fins (which I will post up pictures of later) I think the radiator I in good condition. Yes cooling system health is vital.
I used to sell bulk automotive fluids and recycling services, including engine coolant. It's all the same stuff. Manufactures uses different coloring and stickers to scare you into going to the dealer.
Toyota Red is nothing more than red coolant, it is not a magic formula that prevent's premature cooling system failure.
Any aluminum safe coolant is fine.
When doing your once a week underhood fluids check look at the overflow bottle, is it full? Perfect. No need to remove radiator cap.
The cooling system "dumps" excess coolant into the overflow bottle as the coolant expands and then sucks it back out of the overflow bottle as the system cools, so as long as that bottle is full, you're fine. If that bottle is empty, then your cooling system might be low on coolant. If that bottle is full, your cooling system will be full.
I fill mine right to the top, let the excess spill out the overflow not he bottle and then the system levels out from there.

The best thing you can do for your cooling system is to change the coolant sooner rather than later, coolant is cheap, $8/gal for the 50/50 universal at your local store.
I do a drain and fill every 2 years no matter the miles. Because coolant is cheap. Even though it's long life, I change it anyway.
With the right testing strips you can check the condition0 of your coolant and know exactly how much life it has left, you check it like you're checking the ph balance of a swimming pool. Then you change it if needed, I do not have those strips, so I just drain and fill.

Brief update...It got warm here (Dayton, OH) today and observed slight increases in coolant temperatures. Ambient was close to 90* with moderate humidity and all driving was in the city (lots of stop and go), never going over 45mph. Coolant temps ranged from 188-193* with a peak at 195* briefly at my forth red light in a row. Not to surprising given the driving and weather conditions and the fact that I believe my fan clutch is a bit on the weak side and the coolant is old.

Humidity has zero to do with engine temp.
Fan clutch has everything to do with engine temp.
Coolant lasts forever, it is the corrosion and lubrication additives that go bad. The freeze/boil part of the coolant never ever goes bad.
Coolant can be recycled and made new again.

Motor oil is the exact same way, it never goes bad, it is the additives that go bad and contamination that make motor oil changes needed. But that oil can be recycled back into brand new. I wanted to follow up as I have finished with my coolant system refresh.

This past weekend I replaced the fan clutch of a new OEM unit and drained the old coolant. Additionally, while inspecting the radiator, I noticed that a large portion of the front side of the radiator had a large area that appeared to be blocked by dirt and debris, so that was cleaned up. Over the last 4 days I have flushed the system 5 times using distilled water. Last evening I filled the system with 50/50 mix of Toyota Red and distilled water.

Previously I have replaced the heater tees and thermostat (as mention above).

For now, the system is in good shape. Coolant temperatures range between 186-193* depending on the typical variables such as ambient temps, whether or not I have the AC or heat on, and grade of the road. While pulling long hills and in stop and go traffic with the AC running the coolant temps occasionally hit 195*.

In the near future I plan to replace the radiator. I have about 20K until the timing belt needs to be done according to the service calendar.

I'll use this thread to continue to document my cooling system performance and maintenance.

An automobile that holds a lot of sentimental value to you may be worth more than its market value. Your appreciation for your vehicle may also be due to the fact that it was your first big purchase or one that was given to you by your father, etc. Does feeling just appreciative of your vehicle go far enough? According to a study 'An average American spends 18 days driving per year, with an average of eight hours and 22 minutes per week' This amounts to 25,920 minutes!

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Imagine spending 18 days inside a machine and not knowing about its important parts and how it functions!

One such least talked about vehicle spare part is its 'Radiator'. A large number of people barely pay any attention to what a radiator or vehicle's cooling system is let alone knowing that there may be a different schedule depending on the model and make of your car, usually, you should check your radiator every 30,000'80,000 miles.

A Quick Rundown About What Radiators Are

But today, you got curious, and here you are!

Today you happened to hear the word radiators and looked it up, only to find multiple questions like,

• What are radiators?
• Where are they located?
• Why are they necessary?
• There is something called Aftermarket Radiator?
• What is an OEM Radiator?
• What is the difference between the two?
• Which one is better than the other?
• Should I really be concerned about which one I buy?

And many more. The deeper you dig, the more questions you will come across. Since you took your first step towards researching all about radiators, let us walk you through it.

Vehicle Radiators - What, Where, How, and Why.

What: In order for the engine's cooling system to function properly, the radiator plays an essential role. Designed by the manufacturer of the vehicle, this part maintains engine temperature at an optimal level. Heat is transferred from hot coolant through tubes, then cooled through fins as air blows across the fins.

Where: In a car, the radiator is located underneath the hood, which is the large panel in front. Once the hood is open, locate the radiator towards the front. As a cooling system, the radiator is located near the engine to prevent overheating. Some cars have engines in the back. Volkswagen Beetle is an example. Radiators may be located in the front or in the back of cars with engines in the back.

How: Vehicle engines burn fuel and create energy, which produces heat. Preventing engine damage requires venting this heat. Engine heat is removed by radiators. When the thermostat in front of the engine detects excess heat, the process begins. In the engine, coolant absorbs this heat after being released from the radiator. Heat is transferred from the liquid to the radiator, air blows across the radiator and cools it off, exchanging heat with outside air. In the radiator, thin metal fins let heat escape quickly to the air outside the vehicle. The radiator fan blows air over these fins if the car is at a stop.

Why: It is imperative to realize that the radiator is one of the most critical components of your vehicle's cooling system. While the engine is operating, the system ensures that the engine remains at a safe temperature at all times. As your engine is running, there are a number of moving parts that cause a great deal of friction as they move about. Therefore, your vehicle's radiators are important. Checking and upgrading your radiators is even more important.

What are the options for replacing a broken vehicle radiator? 

If your radiator breaks down, you should get it replaced as soon as possible. The radiator market has been divided into two segments when you begin the process of searching for a suitable replacement. It is pertinent to point out that one type of manufacturer is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), which means that parts are manufactured exclusively for a particular manufacturer. Aftermarket parts make up the other segment. Compared to OEM parts, aftermarket parts are more cost-effective. Produced in large quantities, they are manufactured to OEM specifications.

Option 1- OEM Radiators

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are manufactured by the manufacturer of your vehicle. This means that the OEM radiator will be identical to the one that is currently installed in your vehicle. As a result, when you choose an OEM part, you don't have to do a lot of research; you simply visit your dealer and request a replacement.

 Pros of OEM Radiators

1. Developed by the car manufacturer, this radiator is said to be of slightly higher quality
2. If the radiator breaks down during the warranty period, the manufacturer will back it up

Cons of OEM Radiators

1. The cost of these parts is 60% higher than aftermarket parts!
2. Parts like these are sold by automakers or select suppliers, thus making their availability limited.

Option 2 ' Aftermarket Radiators

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Independent aftermarket radiators, or IAMs, are radiators that are not manufactured by the manufacturer of the vehicle. Rather, another company manufactures the part and sells it as an aftermarket part.

Aftermarket radiators typically have the same specifications as OEM parts. In fact, buying an aftermarket radiator may ultimately turn out to be a better deal than an OEM radiator if you compare the two.

Furthermore, aftermarket parts are sold in large quantities. The reason for this is that most people are looking for a mixture of quality and affordability when it comes to shopping for a replacement car part. It is clear that the aftermarket is gaining a foothold in the industry and is becoming one of the leading competitors for OEMs.

Pros of Aftermarket Radiators

1. There is usually a lower cost associated with these parts compared to OEM parts, depending on the brand.
2. Parts from these manufacturers may be as good as OEM or better.
3. The greater the variety of parts, the greater the functionality and the greater the price range.
4. It can easily be installed by you or any mechanic.
5. Now, a large manufacturer including Dolphin, offers a 1-year warranty on aftermarket radiators.

Cons

1. There is a possibility of being overwhelmed by the increased varieties available.
2. Some aftermarket radiators may not come with a warranty. This will increase the work for you to do tedious research.

A very common question that arises next among most users is.

What is the impact of using aftermarket radiators on the value of my vehicle?

It is possible to find aftermarket radiators that are as good as OEM parts or can even perform better in some instances.

In light of this, an OEM part-repaired car and an aftermarket part-repaired car are rarely worth different amounts. Choosing between the two options is more for your preferences than for maintaining your vehicle's value.

Signs That Indicate I Should Upgrade My Radiator

The overheating of the engine can cause seals and gaskets to break, oil leaks, and complete engine failure. To prevent more costly damage, you should ask a mechanic right away if you notice any warning signs that yours might be on its last legs. It may be time to have a new radiator installed.

1. You have a hot temperature gauge.
   There may be a problem with your vehicle's cooling system if the coolant temperature gauge needle is always running at the hotter end. When your engine doesn't keep cool, this indicates a malfunctioning cooling system and a lack of coolant delivery.
   
   
2. It's overheating in your car.
   Your engine actually overheats when your temperature gauge runs hot. The steam billowing from underneath your car's bonnet can be spotted easily.
   
   

3. Low or leaking coolant
   The coolant level in your car must be checked regularly to ensure it's at the right level. If your coolant is running low, or you see a leak, then you are advised to reach out to your mechanic.

4. Sludge or discoloration in the radiator
   To check this, you'll need to look inside your radiator. Inspect the coolant inside to make sure it is translucent and yellow, green, or red in color. Coolant that is contaminated looks like rust or oil with a sludge-like consistency.

Interestingly enough, if a problem occurs with your cooling system, your car's heating will not function properly. Having a failing cooling system will result in a decrease in the amount of heat your car gets. Prevention is always better than cure, thus, it is highly recommended that you take your vehicle for regular servicing.

Conclusion

Although OEM radiators are definitely expensive, you can rest assured that they are of high quality. However, the same part can be found for half as much in the aftermarket. A reputable supplier offers high-quality aftermarket radiators at competitive prices, while some knockoff brands compromise with safety and produce low-quality radiators.

Buying an aftermarket radiator from Dolphin Radiator can provide a superior value for your money. Assuring safety and preventing quality compromises, we back all radiators with a 1-year warranty.

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