Radiator Upgrade

[LBPete]

The radiator in my 2000 flex fuel 3.0 has developed a crack on the top of the right side plastic tank. It seems like a very odd place for it to crack but after 130k miles, anything can happen. I'd like to replace it with a two row radiator to increase the cooling capacity. I'm not looking for a project so it needs to drop in. What fits?

Also, there are a lot of aftermarket radiators out there. Rock Auto lists 7 all single row. Any recommendations?

Thanks,

- Pete

 

[UrbanRedneckKid]

Get one that will be for a 4.0 Explorer or Ranger, It is a direct fit. I have been using one in my 94 3.0 Ranger for years. I just bought one for a 94 4.0 Ranger and it fits right in and hoses all line up for it.

I'm pretty sure that won't work on a 4th gen. The outlets aren't on the right sides. I know for sure the 3.0 and 4.0 radiators won't fit a 2.5 truck.

Sent from my PG86100 using Tapatalk 2

 

[stmitch]

I've got one from a 2000 5.0 Explorer in mine. I also have an e-fan, and the clearance to the front of the engine is very tight. Not sure how much room you'd have if you have a stock clutch fan.

 

[LBPete]

Good point. I hadn't thought about the fan clearance. I'll take a loook.

- Pete

 

[McCormack]

I also have a 2000 3.0 Ranger and I converted to an electric radiator fan and the fan rarely comes on even in the hottest weather, so I would have to say that your stock radiator is plenty big enough and has plenty of cooling capacity in reserve, so if it were me I would just put a stock radiator (junk yard or new) back in and be done with it.

 

[LBPete]

That's the direction I'm going even though we have some serious mountain passes here where in the 100+ degree summer temps you can count the cars overheated by the side of the road.

I've been combing the internet looking at the available radiators. There are lots of cheapies out there. Then I checked one of the Ford OEM discounters and found the OEM Ford radiator for $215+ shipping. Hard to beat that.

- Pete

 

[Zozma]

a 5.0 Explorer radiator will fit with a stock clutch fan I run one