3G TL (2004-2008)
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Replacement Radiator

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Old 09-23-2017, 07:51 AM
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Replacement Radiator

just an FYI the Denso radiator on rock auto is the exact same as the one from Acura. Big price difference $65 vs $250. I just installed it and fit is 100% spot on.
Old 09-23-2017, 01:46 PM
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Thanks for the info. I was aware that Denso makes the OEM radiator, but wasn't sure if it is a 1 to 1 fit. I have a Denso radiator sitting in my basement (also purchased form Rock Auto) that I purchased when I had a transmission cooler line leak that was repaired at a tranny shop. The repair has held up, but as soon as I see any sign that the leak has returned, I will be swapping out the radiator. How long did this take you?
Old 09-23-2017, 07:11 PM
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Takes about an hour.
Old 09-24-2017, 06:32 AM
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Originally Posted by BillMFD3
just an FYI the Denso radiator on rock auto is the exact same as the one from Acura. Big price difference $65 vs $250. I just installed it and fit is 100% spot on.
Although it fit perfectly, hope your right about quality, but have never found a replacement radiator that was identical to a factory unit.
If you have the old rad, compare the number of tubes, believe the factory has more.
Old 09-24-2017, 09:38 AM
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I picked up a Denso radiator at Napa (I think) for my 07 TL a couple of years ago.....about $150 compared to the $450 that Acura wanted. Did it myself and saved a ton. Looked identical and working fine after 2 years and about 50,000 miles, but wondered if it really is the same. Time will tell.
Old 09-24-2017, 10:49 AM
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Comparing Denso part number to Acura’s it was the same number. A visual they looked identical other than a few markings. All he connection points matched exactly - fan mounts, hoses, rubber vibration mounts etc. I’ll update here if I find any issues.
Old 11-30-2017, 11:29 AM
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It took an hour to replace the radiator? Any special tools needed?
Old 11-30-2017, 11:41 AM
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Nothing really beyond normal hand tools

drain coolant
undo two hoses
remove overflow tank
disconnect fan wiring connectors
remove plastic under car panels
unbolt radiator
remove radiator

install in reverse
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Old 11-30-2017, 11:47 AM
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wow! they dropped in price!
Good deal at $65
Old 11-30-2017, 11:48 AM
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DENSO >= OEM for price alone
Old 11-30-2017, 11:50 AM
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Denso is OEM.
Old 11-30-2017, 11:50 AM
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Old 11-30-2017, 12:16 PM
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Do you have to turn the bleeder or burping screw to make sure no air is in the system?
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Old 11-30-2017, 12:18 PM
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^yes, its real simple. something to do with heat on full blast while adding coolant or something like that.
Old 11-30-2017, 12:35 PM
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Seems like you might now know. Any specific, step-by-step process that I need to follow?
Old 11-30-2017, 12:38 PM
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Originally Posted by BillMFD3
Nothing really beyond normal hand tools

drain coolant
undo two hoses
remove overflow tank
disconnect fan wiring connectors
remove plastic under car panels
unbolt radiator
remove radiator

install in reverse
I believe there are more than two hoses. I believe you're referring to the upper and lower radiator hose, while isn't there a transmission cooler line going to the radiator? How much transmission fluid leaks out of that?
Old 11-30-2017, 02:25 PM
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Generally is most of the rock auto parts oem without the HONDA badge?
Old 11-30-2017, 03:39 PM
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Originally Posted by wilspainar
Generally is most of the rock auto parts oem without the HONDA badge?
depends on the part
Old 12-08-2017, 05:30 PM
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Originally Posted by wilspainar
Generally is most of the rock auto parts oem without the HONDA badge?
Most OEM Parts have their original brand name on them.

Examples:
The LUK clutch kit from rockauto is the exact same parts that you get when you buy from an Acura dealer, A-La-Carte.
The O2 sensors are made by NTK, but the Honda branded versions cost at least 50% more, if not double.
The Aisin timing belt kit from rockauto contains the exact same parts as the Honda branded version, with the Honda version, you buy the individual components A-La-Carte.

When you buy the repackaged Honda version of almost everything, you're paying a premium for it to come repacked in a different wrapping, that's all !

There are occasional occasions where certain parts are exclusively from the dealer, and that should be the only time when you have no choice
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My 2¢
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Last edited by DMZ; 12-08-2017 at 05:34 PM.
Old 12-08-2017, 05:38 PM
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Originally Posted by gatrhumpy
I believe there are more than two hoses. I believe you're referring to the upper and lower radiator hose, while isn't there a transmission cooler line going to the radiator? How much transmission fluid leaks out of that?
i have a manual trans so only two hoses.
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