I'm not sure if the 96 has a separate dash gauge sensor located near the rear of the head but my 92 my sensor went bad and the only way I figured out it was bad was because the temp gauge would read inaccurately by about 10-30 degrees. I think you'll also find with a little research that there are a lot of Cherokee's that run 220-235 on a regular basis. And for what its worth I've also had issues with overheating when the AC is on. My two cents is that if its not reaching the 260 mark I wouldn't worry about it.

 

I'm pretty sure my temp readings are accurate. I used a temp gun the other day. I also stall sometimes when it gets in the 235° range, always at low rpm, or in reverse. Waiting on a new trans cooler line as a i have a leak, as well as the line is bent/crimped near where its going into the radiator (my mishap from trying to break the nut loose whilst replacing the radiator) which could be constricting flow to the trans, causing the trans to overheat? Idk at the point. Also putting in a 180° thermostat when it comes in with the trans lines tomorrow. Thinking about mounting some extra fans in front and maybe deleting the front grill.

 

I just put in a more powerful electric fan. We discussed in this thread below. Hope this helps.

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/che...hot-ac-257518/

 

I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that many old engines, including those in Jeep XJ, overheat due to partial blockage of the engine cooling passages.

This can only be attended by specialised chemical treatment, barring engine out and dismantle

If I was you, I would obtain the heavy duty stuff and flush the engine out, there is one for rust, and one for scale, takes a few cycles

 

that's what I figured.. so is there a good place to get some heavy duty stuff other than an auto parts store? I've done 2 flushes with the Prestone stuff

 

Maybe this stuff?
https://shopcummins.com/products/fle...27928716050532

 

Look at blueridgemark's signature.

 

I have the ingredients somewhere...its 2 separate chemicals...you can get them at a hardware store...I will search around on my computer.

You can pay 3 times as much for specialist engine flushing kits...Google them

You have to take special precautions not to plug the radiator with scum (a stocking)...or get a new one when done

I would recommend a new hose set after the heavy duty treatment, one part is acidic the other alkiline