How to Install a 1986 Toyota Van Radiator

Change your Toyota van radiator.

Replacing the radiator on your 1986 Toyota van is a simple process since you do not have to remove the fan. However, it is a good idea to get organized and prepare for the job before starting. Make sure you have the tools, coolant and transmission oil ready to complete the job.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• 2 drain pans Wrench set Tube wrench Ratchet and socket set Floor jack and 2 jack stands Coolant Transmission oil

1. To Remove

   • 1

     Park your Toyota van in a safe place with plenty of room for you to work around the front of the vehicle.

   • 2

     Place a catch pan under the radiator drain plug and open the plug. When you finish draining the coolant, close the drain plug and remove the pan from underneath the van.

   • 3

     Disconnect the two oil cooler lines if your Toyota model is equipped with them. Use a backup wrench and a tube wrench to disconnect the lines to avoid damage to the lines and lock nut. Place another drain pan underneath the lines to catch the transmission oil that will leak as you remove the lines. Plug the lines as soon as you disconnect them to keep the oil from leaking. If you have to, disconnect the washer fluid tank and move it to the side but do not disconnect the hoses from the tank.

   • 4

     Remove the clamps from the upper and lower radiator hoses using a pair of pliers. Then twist and pull the hoses off the radiator fittings. Remove the coolant reservoir hose off the radiator.

   • 5

     Remove the fan shroud assembly and radiator upper mounting bolts using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Make sure to keep the bolts and clamps in a safe place. Lift the fan shroud off the engine compartment.

   • 6

     Raise the front of the vehicle using a floor jack and support it safely on two jack stands.

   • 7

     Remove the engine undercover assembly by hand, working from underneath the van, and disconnect the radiator bottom mounting bolts and nuts using a wrench or ratchet.

   • 8

     Lift the radiator off the engine compartment by hand.

   To Install

   • 1

     Set the radiator in place and, working from underneath the vehicle, install the bottom mounting bolts and nuts using a wrench or ratchet. Also, install the engine undercover assembly.

   • 2

     Lower the van and install the upper radiator mounting bolts and fan shroud. Attach the upper, lower and coolant reservoir hose to the radiator and secure them with the clamps.

   • 3

     Unplug the oil cooler lines and start the nuts in their fitting by hand to avoid thread damage; then tighten them with the tube wrench. Install the washer tank; make sure the radiator drain plug is closed and refill the radiator with coolant. Start the engine and check for leaks. When the engine reaches operating temperature, check the transmission oil level and add as necessary.