I was just wondering what your engine temp gauges say? My radiator cracked in January and I went to the toyota dealer to replace it along with a new thermostat. The new radiator is smaller than the ES300 radiator. I think they used a camry part. Anyways, since then the engine seems to run very hot. I didnt think much of it then but now since the weather is getting hotter, I am getting worried. The needle is at the middle or a little above but I can no longer touch the engine. I used to be able to touch the plastic parts, such as the caps of the fluid containers and now I cant even open the cap to add power steering fluid. The air intake box is very hot also... What could be wrong? Do you think they installed the wrong thermostat? wrong radiator? what should i do?

 

I just checked and the radiator is the same for either the '92-'93 Camry or the '92-'93 Lexus (CAMRY / ES300 92-93 RADIATOR, 6cyl; 3.0L; 181c.i.) There is a possibility that the thermostat is opening at a higher temperature than normal. I'm not sure if Lexus has a normal opening or high opening thermostat in their parts bin, but if they do they might have given you the high opening thermostat by mistake.

 

For 92-93 ES300 Lexus got an update radiator and it about 1/2' larger than the original. You will need the new radiator bracket as well.

 

It seems very strange to me that for many years and many '92-'93 ES's that the original radiators gave the owners good service without overheating!