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A radiator cap? Seriously?

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Old 04-06-2012, 01:45 AM
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Default A radiator cap? Seriously?

My Jeep has been overheating as of late. I mean going off like a tea kettle.

I've neglected the cooling system. I know, I know... :'(

So I'm ready to buy a water pump. CSF 3 row, Taurus fan. DC controller and just go ape s**t under the hood when a friend suggests I change the radiator cap.

So I do.

Now I'm running sub 210 degrees as opposed to the 220 I was running before and I'm no longer overheating.

Can it really be that simple?
Old 04-06-2012, 02:14 AM
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A dysfunctional radiator cap can definitely cause the cooling system to not hold pressure correctly and cause you to overheat. However, since it has been neglected and with summer right around the corner, I'd suggest an entire overhaul of the cooling system - radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan clutch. Great reassurance and you'll only have to drain and refill the system once
Old 04-06-2012, 03:07 AM
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Higher pressure = higher boiling temperature. (is why you boil your taters' longer at at high altitude)(boiling temp is below 212*

Cap holds pressure, coolant doesn't boil and leave, with the predictable result.
Old 04-06-2012, 03:09 AM
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yes a cap can do it
Old 04-06-2012, 04:13 AM
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If your not going to change your rad yet, clean it from both sides with a hose, get in there and wash it out man!
Old 04-06-2012, 04:15 AM
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Originally Posted by kidrock666
If your not going to change your rad yet, clean it from both sides with a hose, get in there and wash it out man!
at the very least do this
Old 04-06-2012, 04:21 AM
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Originally Posted by freegdr
at the very least do this
We have too EVERY time we go offroad in the UK as its just mud over here lol
Old 04-06-2012, 04:24 AM
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Originally Posted by kidrock666
We have too EVERY time we go offroad in the UK as its just mud over here lol
every time i got the hose in my hand i end up there ...lol...habit....mud every where
Old 04-06-2012, 04:29 AM
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Originally Posted by freegdr
every time i got the hose in my hand i end up there ...lol...habit....mud every where
Yeah I hear yah...lol
Old 04-06-2012, 06:02 AM
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Can you disassemble a radiator to clean it out?
Old 04-06-2012, 06:19 AM
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If you decide to do a flush, just use clear water or water and a little Tide.

A chemical flush on a aluminum and plastic radiator will most likely result in the purchase of that new one you were looking at.
Old 04-06-2012, 11:35 AM
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Pop Quiz: There are several links in the cooling system chain.....which link does neglect effect most?

A. Radiator
B. Radiator cap
C. Water pump
D. T-stat
E. Fan clutch
F. Coolant level/condition
G. Hoses
H. Any/All of the above

Class dismissed.
Old 04-07-2012, 02:01 AM
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I use the prestone flush n fill kit, works really well...
Old 04-07-2012, 05:41 AM
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Do you use the big bottle or the small bottle?
Old 04-07-2012, 01:26 PM
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Originally Posted by djb383
Pop Quiz: There are several links in the cooling system chain.....which link does neglect effect most?

A. Radiator
B. Radiator cap
C. Water pump
D. T-stat
E. Fan clutch
F. Coolant level/condition
G. Hoses
H. Any/All of the above

Class dismissed.
H is the answer


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