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Why Upgrade to a Mishimoto Radiator?

  • Writer: PowerForgeDieselPerformance
    PowerForgeDieselPerformance
  • Feb 6
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 7




It is obvious that your diesel engine (whether Powerstroke, Duramax, or Cummins) has coolant in it. I don't have to go into much detail on what your coolant system does. I will say that your radiator is designed to function under normal use, but what are some reasons you should look into a Mishimoto radiator for your diesel truck here in Yuma, AZ?


The Problem with Stock Radiators (Plastic End Tanks)

The factory radiator (for the most part) is sufficient for normal everyday use. They do have plastic side tanks that are prone to leaking. For many trucks, they use the stock radiator until they start leaking, then they replace it for another OEM radiator and continue without issues. So, many people don’t touch their factory radiator until they start having issues, which is fair. These reasons are fine, until you deal with situations where you do start overheating.


The Mishimoto Advantage: Towing in Yuma Heat

A mishimoto radiator is a 1 piece aluminum design. Meaning, no plastic end tanks to leak. They are stout built, with beautiful welds, and a reputation for extreme durability. Mishimoto backs up their work with a lifetime warranty when you buy. The biggest reason you should consider an upgrade like this is for more headway for towing or hotter environments, like Yuma Arizona. Your factory radiator is designed to run the truck stock with a trailer within the manufacturer weight and speed rating. You’d be surprised to know that maximum tow ratings, usually aren't given at highway speeds. For example, the 2026 Ford F-350 screw cab short bed high output has a maximum towing capacity (gooseneck and 4x4) of 26,900 lbs. (Page 5 of https://www.vdm.ford.com/content/dam/brand_ford/en_us/brand/towing/pdf/2026-Ford-Super-Duty-Pickup-Towing-Guide.pdf).


The page specifically says that this tow capacity was “Calculated with SAE J2807® method.” This method tests trucks towing at 40mph. They are allowed to go faster, but which manufacturer is wanting to drive faster and not maximize their tow capacity with this testing? When was the last time you were hauling your big 5th wheel tow hauler at 40mph on the freeway? When was the last time you did that in the summer time in Yuma, Arizona? My point is that the factory radiator is designed to function in a very specific set of variables and nothing more. The second you get outside of those variables, like towing heavy up a grade, or just driving in 120 degree weather, you risk overheating which most of us have experienced.

A Mishimoto aluminum radiator dissipates heat better and has a larger coolant capacity than the OEM radiator. This means you have more head room for engine cooling when you do step outside those specific factory variables, like towing heavy in the summer in Yuma over 40mph up a grade. It's better to have the headroom and not need it, than need it and cook your engine and deal with those repairs. The Mishimoto radiator also helps cool your transmission for added benefits. You don't have to worry about these mishimotos leaking, as they are pressure tested for pressures above what your coolant system can run, and if you ever did have a leak, the replacement radiator is on mishimoto with their lifetime warranty. (https://www.mishimoto.com/lifetime-warranty)

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Expert Installation at Power Forge Diesel

We at Power Forge Diesel in Yuma, Arizona want your truck on the road as long as possible. We want to work on your trucks of course, but we don't want to see you in our shop for the same issues. We have professional experience installing these radiators on Ford, Chevy, and Dodge trucks. I personally run mishimoto on my big tow rig for the exact reasons I listed above. I’m not an armchair mechanic, I’ve got real skin in the game with real world testing on my own personal vehicles. I can attest that these radiators do work, and I'm glad I have one everytime im climbing a steep grade with a trailer, not to mention covering the heat that comes from other modifications. If you want more information or want a quote for an install, you can reach us by visiting our website. (https://www.powerforgediesel.com/)

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