anybody purchased and used one? quick failure, i dont have the money for an OEM one, and i tried cleaning mine with no luck, just would like some input before i buy.

Thanks

 

How gunked up was the original one ?

Normally, they clean up ok. Is your coolant system level up and free of any trapped air, as this can also affect the idle.
If in doubt, have a pressure check of the system performed.

 

How would trapped air in the cooling system affect idle? It will cause an overheating concern due to vapor...


OP, have you tried rockauto? They are my new go to source for parts, reliable brands at great prices. Looks they have 3 brands ranging in price from 73-112 dollars plus shipping for a 2002 model... Idk the cost of oem, but I would guess its higher.

 

have not tried rockauto, i actually disconnected my IACV before and after cleaning, so i know that it is bad. also will be changing the radiator also as it developed a crack

 

A word of advice on the radiator, do not buy a readyrad brand product. I worked for advance auto parts for almost 2 years and I saw countless radiators and AC condensers made by them come back with cracks and leaks.

 

Good to know. What rads would you recommend from rockauto or elsewhere?

 

Honestly, I don't have any recommendations. Luckily I have not had to replace one in my TL. I am unsure of what brands rockauto carries but they seem to carry reputable brands for the most part. Someone I used to work with found a "performance" radiator the aluminum style for much less than an OE style online last year for his car, which may be something to think about too, however I am not in contact with him so who knows how long it has held up.
As always though, for the average person OE is the way to go for most things but as with anything in life you get what you pay for.

 

thanks for the feedback guys

 

Yeah, I recently bought a replacement rad from Advance , unsure of the brand......but it was made in Mexico. It was a good price, but lacked overall build quality....did'nt even have a drain plug ! But for my old '95 Accord beater, it'll serve the purpose for a few more years, hopefully !!!!

 

Yeah, of the 2 Advance stores I worked in Readyrad is the only brand that was carried unless a second source order was placed, and iirc they are made in Mehico but don't quote me on that

 

on the cleaning- you removed TB from car, remove iacv rod- cleaned it and its slit
plus cleaned the area it rotates in?
the tab was put back in place on assembly?