The Toyota 4Runner has earned its reputation as a dependable and capable SUV, a vehicle that can tackle rugged trails, carry heavy gear, and handle towing demands with confidence. Fifth-generation 4Runners, in particular, have a loyal following among overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts who value durability and versatility. While the stock cooling systems on these vehicles are sufficient for everyday driving, anyone who pushes their 4Runner to its limits, whether off-road or towing, quickly discovers that stock components have their limits. Heat is one of the biggest threats to both engine and transmission performance, and maintaining optimal temperatures is key to preserving the longevity of the vehicle. That’s why we set out to develop cooling solutions for both systems.
The performance aluminum radiator was designed with those exact challenges in mind. Constructed from TIG-welded aluminum, it eliminates the brittle plastic components used in the stock radiator, replacing them with robust aluminum tanks and side brackets for a more durable, reliable installation. The radiator features a significant increase in core volume, improving heat dissipation and overall cooling efficiency. Inside the radiator, an OEM-style 7-row in-tank transmission cooler provides additional protection for the automatic transmission, keeping fluid temperatures in check during heavy towing or demanding off-road use.
Beyond the aluminum construction and expanded core, the radiator includes thoughtful features designed for both protection and performance. A magnetic drain plug captures debris and fragments within the cooling system, reducing the chance of blockages or damage. The 1.3 bar high-pressure radiator cap raises the boiling point of the coolant, improving efficiency and helping to maintain consistent temperatures under demanding conditions. For drivers who value reliability, every detail of this radiator has been engineered to enhance durability and performance without compromise, all backed by a lifetime warranty.
While the radiator handles both engine and basic transmission cooling, some situations require even greater protection for the transmission. Fifth-generation 4Runners rely solely on the transmission cooler inside the radiator with no stock external cooler. Heavy towing, overlanding, and extreme off-road conditions can push transmission temperatures beyond safe limits, potentially leading to reduced performance and costly repairs. That’s why we designed an external transmission cooler to work in tandem the internal one.
Our external transmission cooler adds dedicated cooling capacity to supplement the in-tank cooler. Its tube-and-fin core design, combined with high-efficiency internal fins, maximizes heat transfer and lowers transmission fluid temperatures under all conditions. By reducing the thermal load on the transmission, it extends the life of drivetrain components and reduces the risk of failure. The cooler is engineered to meet SAE J1532 standards, ensuring that lines and connections are strong, durable, and leak-free. Pre-cut hoses and all necessary hardware simplify installation, allowing owners to upgrade without guesswork.
Installation is straightforward. The cooler is designed for direct-fit compatibility with both OEM and upgraded radiators, integrating seamlessly into the existing cooling system. A robust powder-coated finish protects the cooler from the harsh conditions that off-road vehicles often encounter, including mud, rocks, and extreme temperatures. Whether climbing rocky trails, towing a heavy trailer, or navigating daily driving, this cooler keeps transmission fluid temperatures in check.
When paired together, the performance radiator and external transmission cooler form a complete cooling solution that elevates the capability of the 2010–2024 4Runner. The radiator manages engine cooling and provides an integrated in-tank transmission cooler for additional protection. The external cooler adds dedicated transmission cooling, reducing fluid temperatures further and providing redundancy that is especially valuable during heavy use. This tandem approach ensures both engine and transmission operate at peak efficiency, even under the most demanding conditions.
Owners will immediately notice the benefits during towing or off-road adventures. Lower transmission fluid temperatures translate to reduced thermal stress on components, less wear, and longer service life. The upgraded radiator keeps engine temperatures in check while supporting the in-tank cooler, and the external cooler provides an extra layer of thermal management. Together, these components address both sides of the cooling equation, giving drivers confidence that their 4Runner can handle extended climbs, steep grades, and fully loaded excursions without compromise.
In the end, the performance radiator with in-tank transmission cooling and the external transmission cooler maximize what the 4Runner was built to do. From legendary off-road capability to reliability as a daily driver, this cooling system ensures owners can take full advantage of their vehicle without compromising longevity. The enhanced radiator and supplemental transmission cooler work in harmony to deliver consistent, dependable performance. Whether towing heavy gear, overlanding into remote terrain, or improving everyday reliability, this system provides a measurable upgrade that will be felt behind the wheel from day one.
The commitment to quality, backed by a lifetime warranty, ensures every 4Runner owner can focus on the journey ahead rather than the limitations of the stock cooling system. By addressing both engine and transmission thermal management, these components extend the life of critical parts, prevent failures, and allow the 4Runner to perform at its best under the toughest conditions. This is a cooling solution built to match the toughness and capability of the 4Runner itself.