Overheating

[Emlemouse]

I have a 1988 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer and it keeps overheating. Every week or so I put in almost 1 gallon of coolant and it still does it. I think I have a leak in my radiator. Everytime I stop at a light, it goes above 210 even on cool days. Does anyone have a solution or can tell me how much am I gonna have to put down for a new radiator? I know nothing about cars, but my Jeep is forcing me to learn. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Po Pilot]

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!

[frf2003]

Cooling System!!!!!! I had a similar problem on my '88. I bought a new theromstat and was ready to replace first when i realized i only had half of a fan shroud. I replaced the fan shroud for $15 from the dealer and that seemed to do the trick for me. Still haven't replaced the thermostat, and she doesn't seem to go above 195. Good luck.

[snidelywhplsh]

I thought would add 2 additional things that are often overlooked on 87-90 models. Coolant tank cracked and or seal on cap bad ? the cap has a seal and valve not unlike a radiator cap.I sell a bottle and cap almost every other day.....Remember this cap is
on the tank not radiator.
Next is bleeding the system of air after it is exposed ( repairs,adding,etc..) this system is known for air pockets.fill it past the middle line on the tank and keep squeezing all the hoses you can ( while its running - BE CAREFUL )till it burps out air.

These are things to try in addition to the others,all are good starts !

[trekpsycho]

One thing Ididn't see mentioned was the fan. Do you have a fan clutch on that engine. Here's how you check. With the engine off, reach inside the fan shroud and see if the fan will turn by hand. If it does then you have a fan clutch. While your in there, try to move it from side to side to see if there is any slack in it. Sometimes when they go out, you will see symptoms like you describe because when you stop there is no air flow through the radiator.

[richpinkham]

Usually when these cherokee's start overheating its due to a bad fan clutch, non opening thermostat or a plugged radiator (usually plugged rad), if you can do the work youself the usual cost is around $125.00 if both need repaired. Autopart stores carry the clutch unit for around $40.00 and a good radiator shop should only charge around $80.00 or less for a Rod and Repair. Change the theromostat when you drain and refill the system saves having to do it later. Most of the cherokees I have seen have 2 fans one on the engine and a second electric fan for the A/C or when the Temp gets above 220*. Hope this helps
good luck

[klwalker]

Had a similar problem, tried everything, spent money, It was the resivoir cap, two dollar part. Try this first. Got it at a junkyard for a buck.