To maintain reliability, I'm wondering if swapping out the 114,000 mile and 15.5 yr old OEM radiator is prudent. I have no leaks or other issues at the moment. I'm 50/50, wondered what my buddies here think?

 

If it ain't broke, don't fix it is my motto.

 

If you can see any damage that you think could lead to leaks, then you might replace it. But besides that, the only reason I would consider replacing it is if the truck hasn't had regular coolant changes (every 2-3 years) which promotes buildup and potential blocking of coolant passages. Even then, I still wouldn't replace it until it showed problems, but if you got money to burn and really want the utmost peace of mind, I couldn't fault you for changing it.

 

I'd probably wait. You can pressure test it if you want. If you really want to change it and you don't have factory tow package (or if you do and want to keep it that way), you can upgrade to a heavy duty cooling rad which has more capacity than what you'll find normally. I have a thread out there about that.

 

are you having issues with overheating? You can't see inside, if it is plugged up (calcium deposits) they are hard like carbon and hard/if not impossible to dissolve and remove. I would replace it.
I had to on my '01 but it was because bambi ran out in front of me and did more damage than just the rad. I was in southern IL on my way to Texas, got off the hwy and found an OReillys, replaced the radiator in the parking lot and kept on rolling.

 

You know the old saying, "If you go lookin' fer trouble, trouble gonna find you". Something I've learned. As long as its good I would leave it, keeps the wallet a little heavier.

 

I towed 6,000 lbs 300 miles last weekend with no problems, temp or otherwise. Since it's fine now, and the consensus above is leave it be, I think I'll do just that.
Thanks guys.

 

The only reason I'd lean towards changing it is due to the plastic being old... other than that I'd say leave it alone.

 

Even if you do decide to replace it doesn't give you piece of mind! I went threw two radiators (from the local parts stores) and both started to leak right after the warranty ran out. Learned my lesson and got one from radiator.com with a lifetime warranty! It's been in for over 10 years and not one issue. If there is nothing wrong with yours keep it.