Radiator

[Blue Mountain Goat]

I'm new here, I have a 1998 jeep xj, in line 6, manual transmission with 307 differentials and over sized tires 265/70 R 17. I know it works the engine hard going on highway and especially up hill. I took the original radiator out today, with the intention of cleaning and flushing, which I will probably still do. I'm also wondering if I would get any better cooling results with a new aluminum radiator?

 

[Anak]

If the factory radiator is still doing its job I would keep it. It is probably better than most of the other options out there until you get into the really fancy stuff with fancy price tags.

If you do a search here you will find several threads on the topic.

This is probably the most comprehensive thread on the topic.

If that is not enough, there are more threads to go find.

 

[Unclewolverine]

We have had several people spend a lot of money chasing heating issues, only to be solved with a cheap autozone spectra radiator, stant 195 Stat, and a good flush. Unless you are running some sort of hot stroker, a clean, stock system will cool anything you can do in a stock xj.

 

[maxbraketorque]

Assuming the stock radiator is in good shape, and you see no indication that the engine is running hot, leave everything as-is and change the coolant every year.

If you are seeing engine temperatures rise past 230F during normal driving after flushing the cooling system, then consider putting in a stronger fan clutch. The USMW 22148 / Autozone Duralast 922625 fan clutch is a step stronger than stock but not as strong as the ZJ fan clutch. Good part about the USMW fan clutch is that its not nearly as thick as the ZJ fan clutch, so its easier to install. Also check to make sure that your efan is the late model style with more than 5 curved blades. And make sure that its working.

If you are still seeing issues after that, then time to review your cooling system more carefully. Verify that shroud is still fully intact. Figure out exactly what radiator is in there. Consider replacing the water pump.

 

[Blue Mountain Goat]

Assuming the stock radiator is in good shape, and you see no indication that the engine is running hot, leave everything as-is and change the coolant every year.

If you are seeing engine temperatures rise past 230F during normal driving after flushing the cooling system, then consider putting in a stronger fan clutch. The USMW 22148 / Autozone Duralast 922625 fan clutch is a step stronger than stock but not as strong as the ZJ fan clutch. Good part about the USMW fan clutch is that its not nearly as thick as the ZJ fan clutch, so its easier to install. Also check to make sure that your efan is the late model style with more than 5 curved blades. And make sure that its working.

If you are still seeing issues after that, then time to review your cooling system more carefully. Verify that shroud is still fully intact. Figure out exactly what radiator is in there. Consider replacing the water pump.

I put a new fan clutch factory as I had the radiator out for a good cleaning. Seemed like a hand time. Also flushed the system several times. We will see what summer brings. Appreciate all the input.

 

[Motorfish]

I'm new here, I have a 1998 jeep xj, in line 6, manual transmission with 307 differentials and over sized tires 265/70 R 17. I know it works the engine hard going on highway and especially up hill. I took the original radiator out today, with the intention of cleaning and flushing, which I will probably still do. I'm also wondering if I would get any better cooling results with a new aluminum radiator?

What rims are you running with those tires? Do they rub anywhere? Do you have a lift? I’m sorry to be off topic, I was looking for radiator info and stumbled upon this thread. What radiator did you use? Thanks

 

[Blue Mountain Goat]

What rims are you running with those tires? Do they rub anywhere? Do you have a lift? I’m sorry to be off topic, I was looking for radiator info and stumbled upon this thread. What radiator did you use? Thanks

I have 17 in Rubicon wheels with 1 1/2 spacers, no rubbing. I do have a lift, so far I have remained with original radiator after flush. Haven't had any warm weather to put it to the test after flushing.

 

[Motorfish]

Thanks!