Just wanted to see if anyone may have a clue as to what's going on. Driving the Mrs. to work this morning, -35C, and my poor 98 XJ starts overheating.

I popped the hood, everything looks fine, lots of coolant, no leaks, both fans are turning. I haven't gotten around to putting a mitten on the rad yet, so that's not the culprit.

I may suspect the thermostat, but its relatively new, 2-3 months. This is a first for me.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

What year is it...your profile says 89 and your thread says 98...?

I would check for flow by removing radiator cap...also suspect thermostat...you can take it out and stick it into boiling water to test..

Also..check...condition of radiator...fins not corroded..?

Thanks AB

I changed the water pump & thermostat in sept. and gave the rad a visual inspection then. The upper rad hose was hot, if that's an indication that the thermostat is functioning.

For now, I'm going to richen up the antifreeze a bit, just in case there was a popsicle floating around in there, restricting any flow.

I'm off for a test drive, and I'll keep you posted.

Oh, and my profile is updated....I'm on to my 3rd Jeep now :grinno:

For now, I'm going to richen up the antifreeze a bit, just in case there was a popsicle floating around in there, restricting any flow.


That was my first thought....at -35* if you don't have enough antifreeze in there....

Do you have the 4.0 engine? My Cherokee overheated in -48 degree weather and i had to get it towed. Dealer investigated and reported head gasket had failed (only 85K miles). Now i am looking at replacing the engine at $5K.

How about changing the head gasket?

Did you drive it a long ways after the overheat?