Hey all so I started to notice that the top part of my radiator is starting to turn brown. My car currently has 87k miles and it being 15-16 years old it is probably a good idea to change out the radiator. I searched and only found threads that were from 2010 in regards to radiator recommendations.

The first was Denso:

does include radiator cap.
https://amzn.com/B0049GJK02


and the 2nd was Spectra:

does NOT include radiator cap.
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...373835&jsn=314

both are similar in price so I was hoping to get some feedback from you guys on which to go with. My local mechanic has agreed to do the install for $110 which includes coolant and testing.

 

Do the radiator at the same time you replace your timing belt and water pump so you don't have to drain the cooling system twice.

You are basically due for your timing belt do do it at the same time.

I would just go with the denso since it is probably the OEM.

 

sadly I just got the TB / WP completed 2k miles ago..

 

i just put a denso from rockauto in my 02 GS300. Doing great. Original radiator had 160,000 miles on it.

 

DENSO 221-3121 fits 98-05 Lexus GS300 $79.80 shipped

I just installed the above, and like another poster said, i did the timing belt, tensioner, waterpump and cam/crank seals all at the same time

 

Looks like I'm going with the denso.. my oil change is due in the next 1500 miles so I'll probably get it done at that time.

 

Humm...after reading your post I decided to look at my radiator as well. Top looks like its turning brown. Guess its time to get radiator replace now.

 

Found this place in San Bernardino that had a oem replacement for me for 70$.I believe it was called Feeda Cooling, the building and the area were kind of sketchy but so far the radiator is holding up great.