2.0L ('83-'88) 1984 RADIATOR REPLACEMENT (sourcing a new one)

[Ranger43]

1984 Radiator 2.0l 4cyl. I have been unable to locate a new one to replace the current one I have now. Mine maybe is repairable but would like to replace with new if possible. I live in a bigger city in NC and all radiator shop just closed down and will have to drive almost 1hr one way to get it fixed. Basically the filler neck came off while trying to put a new hose that goes from the tank to the radiator. It was leaking and think it probably was leaking from that seam because it still was leaking after I replaced the cap. 1-800 Radiator says they are out of stock and to check back every 3-6 months. LMC gives me no options for this year model. All major stores if they were in stock are priced at 500+.

Just reaching out to see if anyone maybe has a new old stock one or what my options are maybe here.

Thanks

 

[Vindictus]

I found this on ebay https://www.ebay.com/itm/324864597225

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I found this on ebay https://www.ebay.com/itm/324864597225

Most of the early first gens have a bracket that cradles the top of the radiator, not the two tabs that bolt on like the later trucks.

If that one would work so would pretty much any parts store one.

Not sure what it would take to retrofit a later radiator but I would check into it. The bottom mounts are welded onto the crad support with rubber bushings for the bottom pins to float in, the top ones are just holes in the radiator support with extruded J nuts.

 

[Ranger43]

Thanks, the one from ebay im on the fence about due to their seller rating and most of the listings don't include the 84. By looks of it though I may have to try and see.

 

[Shran]

I'd try to retrofit one from an '86 or newer truck. RockAuto has them for about $100... The lower mounts would be pretty easy to make, just a couple pieces of flat metal with holes for the pegs to slip through and some big rubber grommets... upper mounts you could just drill some holes in the core support and use bolts.

I don't think that eBay listing is correct, the mounts are obviously for a later 1st gen truck.

 

[Ranger43]

So I ordered a 86 Radiator off Rockauto and the lower mounts are touching the lower mounts on my truck. Im assuming you could just cut them off (pegs on Radiator) and go with upper mounting like Shran and bolt to core support? The left side is only side that won't fit down in the OG mounts on the truck.

My plans are to document this process and post here because im sure it maybe become harder to find replacements for this year and engine size.