Dumb radiator question

[dasrider]

Ok, I've got a standard cab '94 Ranger with the 2.3L 4-banger and 5-speed manual transmission. Noticed coolant escaping from a crack in the upper plastic when hot the other day. Figured it's time to replace the radiator so I go to RockAuto and choose this one based on my model: https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=6091320&cc=1137967&jsn=297

It shows up on time but I notice it's got the two cooler ports (for automatic transmission I assume?) and what I've got currently installed doesn't. It looks like all my choices for this year 4-cylinder Ranger have the same ports though.

Now, when I look at the choices for the for 3.0L and 4.0L 6 cylinder engines with manual transmissions, it looks the same as mine? Anybody run into this issue before or am I going crazy?

 

[scotts90ranger]

That's fine, you can just leave them open, they make it easier on themselves by only stocking the automatic transmission radiators...

The difference between the 4 cylinder radiators and the V6 radiators is the top and bottom hoses swap sides of the radiator... I'm running the big V6 radiator in my Ranger with some rigged up hoses... top is easy, bottom isn't as nice...

 

[RonD]

+1 ^^^

Probably all they have in stock or the only model they make now since it works for either manual or automatic
As Scott said it won't be a problem, will provide the same cooling as rad without trans cooler hook ups.

Import thing is the rad hose placement

 

[dasrider]

Really, good to know.

So those ports won't leak everywhere? I don't have a way to plug them so I just assumed coolant would just shoot straight out.

Guess I need to cancel the return request, oops.

 

[RonD]

The transmission cooler is self contained so not connected to coolant chambers in the radiator, it is just a heat exchanger

Look here for what it looks like in the bottom(or side) of a radiator: http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/so-...-look-like-inside-radiator-photos-166307.html

You can leave ports open, won't hurt anything.

 

[Mark_88]

Last time I bought a rad for my 2.3 5 speed it came with the ports for cooling lines so...what they said...

Although I haven't done this myself, I did read where one member ran oil lines (for engine oil) through those to keep it cool...didn't see any follow up on it so I assumed it worked out ok for him.

Not that I ever actually needed cooler oil, but it doesn't hurt any thing and may prolong the ability of the oil to lubricate better...or longer...it tends to break down with heat.

 

[dasrider]

The transmission cooler is self contained so not connected to coolant chambers in the radiator, it is just a heat exchanger

Look here for what it looks like in the bottom(or side) of a radiator: http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/so-...-look-like-inside-radiator-photos-166307.html

You can leave ports open, won't hurt anything.

Perfect, answers my questions exactly. Had no idea...

Thanks!