Radiators

[Htchevyii]

I know that radiators are a common subject of confusion so here's my experience. I'm currently running a Performance Radiator single row 1-1/2" thick radiator in the MJ and my "new" XJ. They cost about $130 with free shipping. They do have the provision for the fan sensor and a thicker core than the Spectra Premium.

I did try a Cold Case all aluminum unit. Unfortunately, even with new transmission and engine mounts installed at the same time, there just wasn't sufficient clearance and the first time that I took it off road the fan clutch destroyed the radiator.  Cold Case blamed the aftermarket fan clutch. Nevermind that I've had the truck for 30 years and 4 radiators and never had an issue. Anyway, I switched to the Performance Radiator 3 years ago and it's been working great, also no fan contact even with the same fan clutch. Hope this helps someone.

 

The bottom two pics are the Cold Case.

[75sv1]

I was warned by Dirk at DPG Offroad about an aftermarket clutch fan and a 2 or 3 row radiator. Yes, that 1/2 inch or so makes a difference. Yes, Deth Wobble and stock motor mounts did not help the situation. I am running electric fans now. 

[BizarroStormy]

I am using this super cheap three row all aluminum radiator off amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JVC0SYQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 

Seems to work as good as the copper/brass one it replaced. Only downside I have experienced with it is the tiny mounting screws on the top are also aluminum so super easy to break. Fit with my stock fan. 

[Classy Comanche]

Whatever you do do not order the all aluminum off rockauto. The very bottom one is a waste of money and I'm about $500-$600 deep in them and my return date is past. I got one from Napa. Works like a charm.

[ghetdjc320]

I had the mishimoto and didn’t have an fitment issues even with my HD clutch but I’ve heard it not working for some. Although your fan clutch looks different than mine did. Mine didn’t have those “tabs” sticking out. I’ve come to believe that fluid capacity is key with these radiators. I’d be curious to see a fluid capacity comparison on the various models. 

[Htchevyii]

7 hours ago, Classy Comanche said:

Whatever you do do not order the all aluminum off rockauto. The very bottom one is a waste of money and I'm about $500-$600 deep in them and my return date is past. I got one from Napa. Works like a charm.

There is a 27 or so page thread on one of the XJ forums about radiators. My takeaway was that almost all of the welded aluminum units would eventually crack if used off road, especially the cheaper ones. I don't really like the plastic tanks, but they seem to handle flexing and vibration better than some of the welded aluminum units. 

[Lector Manche]

On 4/24/2023 at 1:27 PM, Htchevyii said:

There is a 27 or so page thread on one of the XJ forums about radiators. My takeaway was that almost all of the welded aluminum units would eventually crack if used off road, especially the cheaper ones. I don't really like the plastic tanks, but they seem to handle flexing and vibration better than some of the welded aluminum units. 

Do you have link to this post?

[Htchevyii]

Here you go:

https://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1150722&page=16