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Review on Denso 221-3209 Radiator: High-Performance Cooling Solution for Optimal Engine Efficiency by Ron Patel

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Perfect fit for my 98 CRV LX AWD

Update August 2018: After 3 years it's still running with no problems. It was perfect for my 98 CRV LX AWD. The quality seems excellent and has worked great so far. I do most of the work on my Hondas myself and it took about 4 hours including changing the thermostat and transmission oil. If I did it again it would probably take me 3 hours. I also replaced the upper and lower radiator hoses but not the transmission fluid hoses which are regular smaller diameter hoses that connect to the bottom of the radiator. The heatsink didn't come with any additional hardware other than the nuts to hold the two fans in place, but all the old parts worked fine despite being 18 years old and a bit rusty. It also has a plastic drain plug. Other parts I've used (all worked fine): Beck Arnley 143-0698 Thermostat Caps 22322 Radiator Top Hose Caps 21871 Radiator Bottom Hose PT Auto Warehouse R126 - Radiator Cap, 16 PSI A few installation tips that might help if you still have this t: The heat gun releases the hoses so that they slip off undamaged. (I swapped mine out anyway.) First remove the plastic protection under the radiator (one of them) to get easier access to the bottom hose connections. Prepare something to catch the gear oil from the 2 smaller hoses. Make sure you unplug all of the fan's wire clips (I think there were 3). A second person helps guide when he actually pulls out the radiator. There were 2 round rubber bumpers on the bottom - be sure to put them on the new radiator. Check again. Before installation, everything was moving between the radiators. You may need to remove the left fan before removing the heatsink. I was able with some effort (with help) to squeeze it in front of the AC line above the radiator. If you are also replacing the thermostat, remove the lower radiator hose and then remove the 2 screws from the housing where the hose attaches. One is top right, the other bottom left. I needed a small 1/4" shim to get at them.

Pros
  • Great overall performance
Cons
  • Doubtful