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You have posed a question of which the majority of us Jeep Owners have asked at one time or another. Unfortunately we cannot give you one definite answer. Overheating could be the symptom of many different things going wrong.
I would check to see if the upper radiator hose is getting hot - if not then your thermostat has gone bad. If that same hose isnt firm then the system isnt building pressure which means either a bad radiator cap or water pump is gone. Take off the front grill and feel the radiator after reaching operating temperature. If you feel cool spots or cooler then the rest spots then you have a plugged radiator. If you open your radiator cap and then start your engine and you notice smoke coming out of the radiator then that means you have a blown headgasket - you can also check your oil - if its milky then you definately know you have coolant going into your oil - another sign of a bad head gasket.
As far as a radiator cost is concern: anywhere from $115 - $150.00 for a replacement. STAY AWAY FROM RADIATOR.COM!! I have a contact at the Jeeps Unlimited forum that sells a great 2-core and a heavy duty 3-core CSF radiator. I myself a a 2-core modine that works just great.
Also, since you are learning - get the Haynes manual and spring for a Factory Service Manual as well.
Hopefully I have given you a head start on what to look for. They guys here are great and if I have missed anything they will definately chime in!
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