Radiator recommendations

[JeepCJ5]

Hey guys, I have an '81 CJ5 with the AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l six. It is going to need a new radiator since the one that's in there looks like it took some hits from a shotgun.

I see that there are a bunch of replacements out there. Any recommendations on a brand? I like the look of the aluminum ones.

The Jeep will be used for mild trails, no extreme stuff.

Thanks,
Justin

 

[Torxhead]

If your existing top and bottom are still good it can be rebuilt. As far as getting a new one, you might want to consider Summit Racing.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

What is wrong with the one you have?
You can have a rod-out done or a re-core if the top and bottom tanks are good.
LG

 

[JeepCJ5]

Here's what it looks like. This is pretty much what the whole radiator looks

 

[WHATROAD]

New radiator, good call

 

[JeepCJ5]

Yeah, I checked out Summit, they look nice. It seems like hit or miss wether the aftermarket ones fit the straight six. Some people say they fit like a glove and others say they don't fit.

 

[gr8dain]

I looked for an OEM copper one a couple of years ago when I had to replace mine. The ones I got used leaked. So I ordered a Champion from Amazon. Works great. Very pleased with my purchase. I was even able to slip the mounting rails inside the grill to give me a little extra clearance from the engine.

 

[hole]

Replaced mine many years ago with a 3 row from Napa, no issues and runs cool as a cucumber in summer

 

[JeepCJ5]

Thanks guys - I'm going to try that champion. It looks nice and they have a 30day return in case it doesn't fit.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Make sure you don't get a China made radiator.
The brass is thin and the solder doesn't hold.
LG

 

[JeepCJ5]

LG, the one I ordered is all aluminum.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Make sure you only use distilled water with the AF.
Please post up pictures after install.
LG

 

[JeepCJ5]

Will do Lumpy, on both recommendations.

 

[NelsonATC]

Stock replacement. Been running mine for 3 years with a Stroker while rock crawling. I also run the dual contour electric fan setup. Never overheat on the hottest of days.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[JeepCJ5]

Cool - I plan to check out the junk yards for one of those contour fans when I get a chance.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Cool - I plan to check out the junk yards for one of those contour fans when I get a chance.

You'll need to upgrade your altenator.
Also-They can be loud.
Please do some research. I for one have never felt the need for the change.

LG

 

[Hedgehog]

Run the stock fan on the new radiator until the jeep proves it needs more cooling. "Keep it simple" if you possibly can.

 

[JeepCJ5]

Good advice - I plan to change one thing at a time and see how it goes.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Be sure you run a shroud with the OEM style fan.
LG

 

[Petescj]

The last replacement radiator I got had plastic tanks and really thin fins. That's why I saved the radiator out of the 82 I just parted out. I'd rather use it than another $250 China one like I ended up with.