Was taking out the o2 housing and had a field day, didn't even realize I was hitting the radiator (yeah, I'm retarded).

Will this be fine to run despite all the damaged/bent fins? If not, what radiator would you recommend (I've been looking at a Mishimoto aluminum radiator).

Thanks!

 

Been there. Rushing through a job & doing damage in the process

Im sure its fine, but bending over the fins would reduce its effectiveness by a certain margin
Im sure its ok to run as is

 

Given that the IX is about 10 years old and the Mitsu rad has a bad habit of cracking where the end tanks and the core meet, this might be the perfect time to replace the rad.

Mine failed in spectacular fashion while driving at about 10 years & 125k miles. Coolant spewing all over the roadside followed by a flatbed to the shop.

 

You're good. . It will work fine. You should see mine. LOL

Edit: if it makes you feel better, I have 130K on mine. About 127K of that were with the standard water/coolant mixture.

 

^^^that.
You are more likely to have a tank failure from the age than any problem from the little bends you put into it if there aren't any sharp angles in the cooling rail (doesn't look like it).
You can get a stock replacement radiator for like $60 if it bothers you... I'd be more worried about the tank crimps at the top failing or the typical stress cracks in the top tank than I would about what's in the picture though.

 

Alright, thank you for the input guys!!