i called kittridge radiator outside of denver and an aluminum radiator is only 200 plus labor, which was quoted around 100. The shop had a two row for around 350 too. Hopefully this helps.

as for the pictures, i have been busy working, so I will get them up soon!

 

have you replaced the fan clutch ?

 

I have not replaced that yet, no. I talked to a shop and told me if I could turn my fan pretty easily by hand when the truck is off that I probably have a good fan clutch. Could it still be bad?

 

yeah . . . that's the wrong way

Check it when it's hot . . . You sound like you're having issues with the heating up when you're standing still or in traffic.

When it's at normal temp or hotter . . . open the hood . . . go back and turn off the truck . . . after the truck turns off, count or see the revolutions it makes. If it's really good . .. 2-3 4-5 max . . . and it instantly.

After its off . . . it should be pretty firm to turn . . . not easy.

 

If it's bad, how many revolutions should it make?

 

it'll free spin for 5-6 times . . . kinda like a big tire, and just gradually stop

remember to do this while it's hot and after it's been running for a while.

 

Here is the fluid on the side of the block. looks like an intake manifold gasket maybe...
I wish the pictures were better, but I haven't driven the truck in 2 days so the fluid is pretty dry, you can see some of it dried orange.

 

tried the fan clutch turned three times and stop instantly, so I don't think it was the fan clutch. Should i go with the radiator, 160* thermostat, and may e-fans?

 

The intake gaskets would be my first guess. The 7.4's don't seem to be as bad as the 5.7's, and 4.3's about eating gaskets but It is still common. Also be sure the coolant isn't getting into your oil.

 

How difficult is it to change an intake manifold gasket? Is it something I could tackle with some buddies? Or should I have a shop do it?