what temp does your xj run?
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,172
Likes: 17
From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L HO
Since u live in Canada, where it gets really cold, how/why would a motor actually run 210F with a 195F stat with the heater running? At 210F actual, a 195F stat should at, or very close to wide open, no? If the 195F stat is at or close to wide open, and it's freezing cold, how can coolant actually reach 210?
CF Veteran
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,127
Likes: 0
From: Capac, Mi
Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
there is nothing wrong with my jeep running a 180* thermostat in the summer. i still consistently run 195-210*, its a bit more assurance to know that i can wheel for hours and not have a heat soak issue.
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
From: Pac Northwest
Year: 1987
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4 litter
I have a new radiator,water pump and thermostat. Boiled it over a couple of times while sitting in line for death in a cup. Got a new volvo pressure tank cap, no longer a problem. I have to try and run up to 210. 4L automatic
Herp Derp Jerp
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 18,251
Likes: 17
From: Parham, ON
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L OBD-II
I realize it's only 15 degrees but it can make a difference. Not to mention you just admitted that this 180 degree thermostat has done absolutely nothing for you...
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
Model: Cherokee
No, I don't have a link or scientific studies.....so I'll re-phrase......over the years, all I have is 1st hand experience comparing factory gauges with aftermarket gauges. I've used AutoMeter, Stewart Warner and a few other brands of analog gauges on older (non-computer/carbed vehicles) as well as ScanGauge, Daytona Digital and General Motors digital gauges on later model (computer/EFI vehicles).
Most aftermarket gauges (analog or digital) will "tell it like it is or "what's actually happening". Most factory gauges are purposely rigged to display +/- the middle of the gauge as long as factory "normal" parameters are being met. This keeps the owner/driver from bugging the shop foreman with "the needle is pointing way different today than it did yesterday".
There's no way any water cooled motor will run the same temp in freezing cold weather/heater roaring, as it will in triple digit weather/air conditioning roaring. For the most part though, a factory gauge will point to +/- the middle throughout the 4 seasons as long as normal factory parameters are met. Aftermarket gauges aren't rigged for any parameters, other than their min/max range.
I'm not saying factory gauges r worthless, but after plugging in a aftermarket digital gauge/scanner into the ALDL port under the dash of various vehicles (including the XJ) and observing digital readings under all kinds of driving conditions (hot/cold ambient, heater/a/c roaring, towing, etc.), one will wonder about the factory dash gauge readings.
Most aftermarket gauges (analog or digital) will "tell it like it is or "what's actually happening". Most factory gauges are purposely rigged to display +/- the middle of the gauge as long as factory "normal" parameters are being met. This keeps the owner/driver from bugging the shop foreman with "the needle is pointing way different today than it did yesterday".
There's no way any water cooled motor will run the same temp in freezing cold weather/heater roaring, as it will in triple digit weather/air conditioning roaring. For the most part though, a factory gauge will point to +/- the middle throughout the 4 seasons as long as normal factory parameters are met. Aftermarket gauges aren't rigged for any parameters, other than their min/max range.
I'm not saying factory gauges r worthless, but after plugging in a aftermarket digital gauge/scanner into the ALDL port under the dash of various vehicles (including the XJ) and observing digital readings under all kinds of driving conditions (hot/cold ambient, heater/a/c roaring, towing, etc.), one will wonder about the factory dash gauge readings.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 773
Likes: 0
From: Rockford illinois
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: h.o. 4.0
Since u live in Canada, where it gets really cold, how/why would a motor actually run 210F with a 195F stat with the heater running? At 210F actual, a 195F stat should at, or very close to wide open, no? If the 195F stat is at or close to wide open, and it's freezing cold, how can coolant actually reach 210?
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,172
Likes: 17
From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L HO