LS - 1st and 2nd Gen (1990-2000) Discussion topics related to the 1990 - 2000 Lexus LS400

91 LS400 Radiator Oem Vs Aftermarket

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Old 04-19-12 | 09:02 AM
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Default 91 LS400 Radiator Oem Vs Aftermarket

I need to replace my radiator however i need to choose whether to go OEM or Aftermarket. I've researched prices and found OEM's to be around the $500 ball park and the aftermarket NAPA radiotar is around $189. Are there any advantages of the oem radiator??
Old 04-19-12 | 10:26 AM
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Not enough to justify the price difference..
Old 04-19-12 | 01:59 PM
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Thank. I mean the oem one lasted me almost 20 years. But i dont think i will need to worry about that
Old 04-19-12 | 03:06 PM
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Being this is a relatively easy part to change, I'd go with the aftermarket.
Old 04-19-12 | 03:16 PM
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Save the money.
Over the years I've had a few fitment issues. Some radiators came up a bit short so they didn't fit securely in the clamp down brackets. Others have had pins just slightly off so that they didn't slide easily into the rubber isolation bushing holes. Usually meant modding the mounts/bushings which is fairly easy. OEM Toyota slides right in no hassle but the extra $75-$200 is a consideration.
Old 04-21-12 | 12:21 PM
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If I can afford it, I try to go with OEM parts when I can. Can't beat the worry free fit and reliability.
Old 04-21-12 | 04:50 PM
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Just buy the aftermartket and save some money.
Old 04-21-12 | 05:55 PM
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I just broke the overflow nipple on my 96 model last month and bought an aftermarket one. Easy fit.
Much cheaper.
Only thing different was the two nipples for the transmission down the bottom pointed down rather than towards the engine.
Made no difference.

Its been fine.
Gosh I hate that overflow nipple!
Old 05-06-12 | 01:58 PM
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Radiators and AC condensors are 2 parts on a vehicle I have no problem using aftermarket.
I as a parts manager for a shop for 5 years and was meticulous about inspecting aftermarket parts for reasons to refuse it and use OEM, however I have had hardly any issues with those over the years. 1800radiator an Performance Radiator are relatively cheap.
Old 05-06-12 | 04:41 PM
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Originally Posted by andy2o3
Thank. I mean the oem one lasted me almost 20 years. But i dont think i will need to worry about that
over 20 years there is not a drop of petrol availble im afraid.

i bought the aftermarket one and it fitted like a glove, no regrets for that

if it will work for 10 years it is ok ....
Old 05-07-12 | 10:34 AM
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I ended up going for aftermarket. Saved about $200. So far no problems. Thanks for the help guys.
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