Thicker 2-Row radiator. Will it really fit?

[Paisano]

The depth of the cooling fin metal structure on my current radiator is 1 inch. The depth of the 2-core radiator is a little over 2 inches. I can't remove the cap right now. Still too hot. I'll have to make a decision in the morning

I think I have always had single core.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I think only Explorers (automatic, 4dr with A/C) got the bigger radiator from the factory.

 

[Paisano]

The radiator dealer that sold me the last radiator also has a repair shop. I talked to their repair tech on the phone. He doesn't show 2-core compatibility with my make/model. He also confirmed my part number is single core. So it looks like I got over 9 years from this radiator that just started leaking. I still have the invoice.

I don't know why auto parts store list 2-core as an option for my Ford Ranger

 

[Curious Hound]

I put a 2-row in my '93. But I swapped to electric fan at the same time. So I can't tell how well ot fit with the original fan and shroud.

If I recall, the aftermarket radiator I bought was listed for 4.0l Ranger, with AC and with or without auto trans.

 

[Paisano]

I better stick with single row then. The radiator tech I talked to said 2-core probably meant for the 4.0 liter Ranger like Hound said.

Also meant to ask.....when I replace the radiator can I stick a garden hose in the thermostat housing opening and gently flush out engine block coolant channels with low pressure water?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

They make additives to help break up stuff.

Some things won't come out with just water.

 

[Paisano]

Yes, I'm usually do 3 drain and refills with usual cooling system cleaning solution (I have never back flushed). But this time I thought it might help to flush out engine block coolant channels with water also, since I have been running elevated temperature on the freeway.

 

[Curious Hound]

I recommend this. Always works great for me. Several of us also recommend swapping the heater core hose connections, also, to reverse flow through the heater core and help keep it flushed out.

Prestone is not a sponsor. I shamelessly stole this image from a website.

 

[Paisano]

Yep. The tried and true Prestone flush kit.
Thanks Eric
About half off on discount. Pick up radiator today

 

[Paisano]

Done.
I flushed out the system and the local radiator dealer gave me a free replacement. Truck is running much cooler.

I found out why the truck was running so warm on the freeway. When I removed the old radiator, it was about 40% matted with dust, grit, leaves, bird feathers...the usual.

I've been driving like this for 2 or 3 summers now although I discontinued most freeway driving when this started. Don't know why I didn't check the face of the radiator. I must have been distracted with other repair issues.

It never overheated, as far as I can tell. But I wonder how much I shortened the life of the engine. I hope a head gasket replacement isn't on the horizon.