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Overheating

1K views 12 replies 11 participants last post by  Laggy 
#1 ·
Hello! I have a 1997 wrangler 6 cylinder and I’ve had problems with it overheating after replacing the radiator a week ago. The water pump, antifreeze, thermostat, and hoses have been replaced in the past year but it still will overheat. I’ve tried “burping” the system to get the bubbles out about 4 different times and I’m pretty sure all the air bubbles are out. Online it is saying it could be the head gasket but it’s hard to believe that because before replacing the radiator It ran just fine. Any help would be appreciated!
 
#3 ·
Welcome.

Have you tried flushing the heater core? I use an old school twist nozzle hose attachment, as it fits watertight in heater hoses. Undo heater hoses. One hose gets the nozzle, other one goes into a empty gallon jug to contain liquid and inspect crud. Run hose at just enough to push water through, then turn up a little. Reverse. Keep doing it.

ProTip. You could drain the block, but I doubt that’s causing your issue.
 
#6 ·
Welcome to the Forum Clayharland,

If you weren't having any cooling problems, why did you replace the radiator?
Can you borrow a cooling system pressure tester? You'll need that and a cheap HF mechanics stethoscope.
A compression test and a leak down test should give you some indication of if you have a bad head gasket.
What's the casting number on your head?
What radiator did you use?

Good Luck, L.M.
 
#10 ·
You mentioned you replaced the hoses.. did you swap the coil spring into the new lower hose?
 
#11 ·
A big reason for overheating are system leaks. leaks around gaskets, hose clamps and even the radiator cap. If you have a leak, the system wont hold pressure and without pressure the coolant will boil--convert to steam.

also if you have a bad head gasket, NAPA sells a block tester kit for about $40
 
#13 ·
WWJI. What would Jerry install? Anyone who has been on here for any length of time and pays attention knows the answer.

I sold my TJ with the 4th (3rd warranty) aftermarket radiator. After the first “fluke” I knew I should have gone back to Mopar.
 
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