Radiator

blang4d · 10-04-2006, 10:38 AM

Well, I'm finally going to have to replace my Jeep's radiator. It's a 97 TJ (6 cylinder) with 128k+ miles. From what I've read on this forum, I consider myself very lucky that the original radiator has made it this far. Anyway, I think I know which replacement radiator I'm going to go with, but I was wondering if I should replace the hoses too while I have everything apart. The hoses are the originals too and while they look fine from the outside, breaking down on the side of the road with a busted radiator hose is the last thing I want to happen. Does anyone have any advice on if I should worry about installing new hoses while I have the radiator out? If so, where's the best plase to buy the hoses? Thanks

purplewindworm · 10-04-2006, 10:39 AM

at 128K it could not hurt, but if you are short on cash, then I think that the lower hose is more likely to fail. just my opinion

gs2offroad · 10-04-2006, 10:48 AM

I went through the same process (97 TJ, 115k) and I bought new hoses initially, but returned them because when I replaced the radiator, the hoses were still fresh. If money is no object replace them and the thermostat too (the "while you're at it" theory). You can get hoses at any auto parts store.

blang4d · 10-04-2006, 02:28 PM

Money is a factor right now, so I think I may wait a while to do the hoses.

daveg13 · 10-04-2006, 04:14 PM

At that age/miles, I would do the hoses without a doubt, and thermostat for what they cost. Also a good time to do your belt if it hasen't been replaced recently.

blang4d · 10-04-2006, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by daveg13

At that age/miles, I would do the hoses without a doubt, and thermostat for what they cost. Also a good time to do your belt if it hasen't been replaced recently.

I know this may seem like a stupid question, but what hoses exactly should I replace? Just the upper and lower Radiator hoses? Or are there others too?

**Jerry Bransford** · 10-04-2006, 05:03 PM

With that many miles, you really should replace all the hoses. There are four that are in the radiator cooling system. Upper and lower radiator hoses, and the two hoses leading to the heater. Note those two heater hoses are two different sizes. Any one of the four blowing would cause you to lose all your coolant.

mpyusko · 10-04-2006, 05:44 PM

I agree, replace the hoses. It is far easier to replace them with the radiator out. Plus, you have to drain the coolant to change the radiator anyway. two hoses are what $20? What's it worth to you if you blow it on the highway or trail? save the old ones and keep them with you on a trail ride.

lepoisson · 10-04-2006, 05:46 PM

def replace them!!

blang4d · 10-05-2006, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mpyusko

I agree, replace the hoses. It is far easier to replace them with the radiator out. Plus, you have to drain the coolant to change the radiator anyway. two hoses are what $20? What's it worth to you if you blow it on the highway or trail? save the old ones and keep them with you on a trail ride.

good point, I'll replace them

Timmybung · 10-05-2006, 12:43 PM

I just did this exact job two weeks ago. New radiator (2-row)- $160 shipped from www.radiatorbarn.com, plus $16 ($8 each) for the upper & lower hoses. I also replaced some of the mounting hardware for the radiator- easy to find the nut clips at VIP Auto, new clips & bolts was under $10. My only piece of advice is to really crank down when tightening the hose clamps- mine leaked the next day because they were not tight enough. Good luck-
T

kadmos · 10-05-2006, 01:04 PM

Sometimes hoses that old need to be cut off, so its nice to have new ones on hand. Also a good time to check that water pump while you have the extra room. If the raditor leak is pretty small still, you might get by another week or 2 to get some cash together, not that I would really reccomend waiting.

bobbert350 · 10-05-2006, 01:52 PM

hoses r cheap u will need to replace themm..i have 155k on my motor and the stock radiator from what i can tell n its from 88 n its running like a champ..i check the fluid every week from when it gets cold and no rust or anything

blang4d · 10-06-2006, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kadmos

Sometimes hoses that old need to be cut off, so its nice to have new ones on hand. Also a good time to check that water pump while you have the extra room. If the raditor leak is pretty small still, you might get by another week or 2 to get some cash together, not that I would really reccomend waiting.

I replaced the water pump about a year ago or so, so I think (knock on wood) that'll be fine. I do think I'll replace the hoses though.

10-04-2006, 02:28 PM	#4
blang4d Registered User Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Pasadena, MD Posts: 124 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	Money is a factor right now, so I think I may wait a while to do the hoses.

10-04-2006, 05:46 PM	#9
lepoisson Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: windsor ontario Posts: 101 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	def replace them!!

10-05-2006, 01:52 PM	#13
bobbert350 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: bucks county, pa Posts: 2,941 Profile Gallery Classifieds My Jeeps	hoses r cheap u will need to replace themm..i have 155k on my motor and the stock radiator from what i can tell n its from 88 n its running like a champ..i check the fluid every week from when it gets cold and no rust or anything