I have a 1991 Accord wagon EX. The radiator has developed a split on the top reservoir seam that I temporarily repaired with JB Weld. I plan to replace the radiator, read the DIY description and am confident it is well within my skill set. My question is with the many brands available on the net, what are the best quality replacement radiators in list experience? or what should I avoid?

Thanks,
Bob

 

Lswpubrw,

I have found that the OEM radiator by Denso is a top-notch quality replacement radiator. It may not possess the cooling capacity of aggressive after market performance radiators from Mishimoto but it's entirely sufficient for street use. The OEM part number is 19010-PT1-908 and costs anywhere from $372 (dealership price) to $263 (OEM parts site price).

I would avoid buying after market radiators from autopartswarehouse.com or rockauto.com, as I've installed a few of these budget radiators for my friends in the past and they've had issues with leaks/fitment.


Just make sure that you conduct ample research before pulling the trigger on a replacement radiator and you'll be golden

 

wow - that seems expensive
I used a $100 rad from Autozone and it works perfectly for me
Been over as year and ZERO problems.

 

If you go to densoproducts.com and search for 221-3225, you will find a denso radiator for your accord for $120.

 

Thanks much that was very helpful, I'm opting for the Denso exact replacement.

Bob

 

Two cents from a poorman, get quality rad hoses, I prefer Gates but that is me.

Then if this is an auto trans, be sure to get a couple of feet of trans cooler hose(must be rated for trans cooler use...fuel line WILL NOT WORK) and replace the rubber parts going to the bottom rad connectors....and plan on needing a bit if trans fluid or at least check it after.

 

+1 on the trans lines
I bought fuel lines when i did mine and had to replace a hose that split within a week
It sucks doing the same job twice

 

Yep, get the right hoses. Reminds me of when I was 16 years old (a long time ago) and didn't have a lot of money. IIRC, I was trying to repair a leak in a some line with the wrong type of hose.

 

I ordered the Denso radiator but later they sent me an e-mail saying it's on back order probably available 9/9. I wonder if this is part of the Japanese fall out from the tsusami or if these cars are just that old?

Bob

 

I would say both are factors of finding this in stock...