That ebay rad with two 1" wide rows and .375" between the rows means it's a 1.125" thicker core than OE.....really? Motor mounts better be in "like new" condition or else the fan clutch will be contacting the rad rad core and I bet the rad warranty doesn't cover that.

If the advertised numbers are "for real" and it's truly a "drop in fit" for the XJ, that rad would be awesome. Anyone have 1st hand experience with that rad in their XJ?

 

Technically copper is more conductive than aluminum but the real issue here is you're trying to get heat transferred from metal to air. Air is an excellent insulator. So either one is going to perform about the same. Go with aluminum, it's cheaper and stronger.

 

Yes, copper is slightly better at conducting heat than aluminum but the key to modern aluminum rads being more efficient at cooling system heat reduction is the very wide tube design (and less in number) vs copper/brass narrow tube design (but more in number). U never see a 1 row copper/brass rad but 1 (very wide) row aluminum rads are common OE rads and have been for 20+ years. 20+ years ago the auto mfgs. didn't offer 1/2 ton p/u trucks with 10,000 lb tow ratings.....they do now and I don't believe any of them come from the factory with copper/brass rads.

 

I got it in mine. The thickness comes to the front where there's at least a 1 inch gap between the rad and AC condenser. I dropped my e fan on it and gouged a hole in it but got that welded and haven't had a problem since. Yeah it does bolt in with no issues

 

U got the $142.45 one for $40......hum, not bad.

 

I used to work at Lakeshore Radiator, you can find them on the web, they have a few locations in the South, and for the most part they used to have good prices. They offer a 2 row HD radiator also. Anyway, the reason you find Alum radiators in everything new(and smaller core size) is because it is more effecent. You do have to look out for electrolysis, stray voltage that will eat a hole in one quick. Just attach a ground wire to the core(do not puncher the core) somewhere where there is a flange, and then to the chasis. This will help to avoid the electrolysis from killing the Rad.

FYI to all, change out your radiator fluid every 30K or 2 years, best to use 50/50 pre mix. Keeps scale buildup from happening with tap water.

 

Here's a good read. Wider tubes are more efficient at shedding heat and aluminum is stronger than copper.

http://www.stockcarproducts.com/rad2.htm

 

With free shipping. Local radiator dude is pi$$ed cuz he sells the same radiator for $90

 

The CSF HD 3 row is a great radiator. I put one in last year and love it. I ordered mine from dpgoffroad.

 

Can u post up the ebay link?

 

The stock cooling system works very well when it is in good condition. Clogged sytems are the cause for most "overheating" problems. Extreme conditions may require extra equipment but, that would be on a special circumstance basis.

I purchased a stock style rad from Advance for $94 with a $50 coupon for future purchases. Ordered online, no shipping charge, picked up 15 minutes later at my local retail store. Works just fine. Fitment was a mild issue, but easily solved.

Save your money for important things: like lead for your 1911.

 

Just wanted to add my opinion here. I am not a radiator expert. But all of the Jeeps I've owned came from the manufacture with an aluminum core and plastic tanks. For me it's been a 50/50 split with either the core or the tanks failing. Both of my all metal radiators are fine. It would be hard/impossible to convince me that an OEM design radiator (one with plastic tanks) is superior to any all metal radiator- aluminum, copper, or otherwise.

I will say that American Egale all aluminum radiator looks nice and is the right price. I'd need more than a satalite photo of a building to convince me they're not made overseas. Anyone here confirm they actually exist and are made in the US?

 

I believe the FSM says the plastic tanks are stronger than metal ones.

 

Seems they went up a few $$$ since I bought mine a few months ago
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Row-Aluminum-Radiator-Jeep-Cherokee-Comanche-2-5-4-0-/290588993855?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories &fits=Make%3AJeep|Model%3ACherokee&hash=item43a874 293f&vxp=mtr

 

Somethings fishy......a 2 row with a skinny 1.125" core? Think we're talking two totally different rads.