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

Bought this Denso radiator to replace my 2001 Honda CR-V. The Honda radiator has clocked up 187,000 miles with proper maintenance. (I also use just under 50% coolant on my medium (more than 50% distilled water).) It started dripping on top of the metal-plastic seam, and after it was removed there was a noticeable raised hairline crack ready to erupt right away . opposite the upper hose connection, so just in time. The black plastic has turned yellow in these areas, but this is a real testament to the quality of the material used. While I had no real qualms about using a non-genuine part based on the reviews ($50 at auto parts stores), this was not a rushed repair and I was impressed with Honda's quality and durability, so I looked for an OEM replacement. Parts for Honda cost around $300-450! I found Denso OEM parts for my Honda so I looked at this as an option. While not much more priced than the no-name parts, I found the Denso cooler on the Revain to be a "slightly damaged" item. So I took a gamble on saving a few bucks more for an OEM replacement. Came in perfect condition, in a slightly worn box. There is no radiator cap, but there is a new drain cock underneath. The top of the heatsink is slightly larger, evidenced by the width of the top plastic piece. The overall finish of the plastic is nice, the fins are not bent and it comes with instructions. Everything fitted perfectly - the two original fans, transmission radiator hoses, bolts and large radiator hoses, and the radiator sat very securely in its rubber grommets on the body (I replaced a fairly hardened one). NOTE: Only difference is that the radiator cap inlet and upper hose inlet (hot) are slightly to the left, so the radiator upper hose and expansion tank inlet are slightly narrower and can rub against objects. So be aware that some insulation may be required/prevent if you haven't already done so, it's time to replace ALL HOSES - radiator top and bottom and transmission cooler hoses, and maybe consider a new thermostat and radiator cap too draw. I don't like bar clamps and reused my old bar clamps that weren't corroded. I had a small prop and screw that was completely rusted out and had to be ripped out, so I replaced all the metal screws as well. Rubber grommets/mounts should also be checked. This unit has a larger capacity than the original, as evidenced by the refill, and it cools more efficiently. My fans run noticeably less even on the hottest days when I park the car for any reason (beach traffic!). I am very happy with this purchase and would recommend it to all CR-V Gen 1 owners. If I had known it was that easy to remove/inspect I might have actually done it for fun and the original part at 120-130k replaced .