Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Radiator

1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Radiator — Purpose and Servicing Advice

Yes, a radiator is absolutely fitted and relevant to the 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical references, including the Mitsubishi Pajero factory workshop manual (late-1990s V20 series), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and common aftermarket guides (e.g., Haynes/Max Ellery), all specify a liquid-cooled system with a cross-flow aluminium radiator and plastic end tanks. Petrol V6 and 2.8L turbo-diesel variants both rely on this radiator to manage engine heat, and most automatic models integrate a small transmission fluid cooler in the radiator’s tank.

The radiator’s job is simple but critical: it sheds the heat picked up by the coolant as it circulates through the engine. Working alongside the thermostat, water pump, fan clutch/electric fans, and the radiator cap, it helps keep operating temps stable for performance, longevity, and reliability—especially important for Kiwi and Aussie conditions, whether towing the boat or crawling a fire trail.

For servicing, sticking to quality coolant (ethylene glycol, mixed 50/50 with demineralised water unless otherwise specified) and changing it on time makes a huge difference. Many workshops recommend flushing every 2–4 years or 40,000–60,000 km. When the radiator’s out for repair or replacement, it’s smart to renew upper and lower hoses, hose clamps, and the thermostat. If it’s an auto, treat the in-tank trans cooler with care—cap the lines while the radiator’s out, then check and top up ATF afterwards.

Common warning signs that a Pajero radiator needs attention include persistent overheating, coolant stains or sweet smells around the front end, brown or sludgy coolant, a cracked plastic tank, a weak radiator cap, or cooling fans that don’t cut in properly. Off-roaders should also watch for mud and seeds clogging the fins—restricted airflow can spike temps even if the coolant’s fresh.

• Flush with the heater on, refill slowly, and bleed air by gently squeezing the top hose and letting the engine warm up nose-up on ramps.
• Use a cap and coolant that meet OEM specs, don’t mix coolant types.
• Rinse the core from the back to the front with low pressure after dusty or muddy trips.
• If towing or working in hot climates, consider an upgraded core and ensure the fan clutch is healthy.

Popular questions about 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero radiators

What coolant should be used, and how much does it take?
Use a quality ethylene glycol coolant at a 50/50 mix with demineralised water, unless the vehicle’s handbook specifies otherwise. Capacity varies by engine and whether the heater circuit is fully drained, but expect roughly 8–11 litres. Always confirm with the service manual for the exact engine.

How do you bleed the cooling system after a radiator change?
Park nose-up, fill the radiator slowly, set the heater to hot, and start the engine. As it warms, gently squeeze the upper hose to purge bubbles, top up as the level drops, then fit the cap. After a proper drive cycle and cool-down, re-check the radiator and overflow bottle and top up if needed.

Does the Pajero radiator include a transmission cooler?
Many automatic 1998 Pajeros have an in-tank ATF cooler in the radiator. Manual models don’t. If removing the radiator on an auto, cap the trans lines to prevent contamination and check ATF level and condition after refit.