Radiators

Well I have just discovered that the radiator I had was actually a Mercedes one to suit the old motor, looked so similar I never figured it until I went to pumb it up and its all different. Question is what do I replace it with, I'm running a AMC 360 so obviously a V8 type but what do I look for and what to look out for. Do I stay with Copper or do I go aluminium. I don't want anything flashy just one to do the job. Any comments welcomed.

 

Year? It would be helpful to put that info in your signature file.

Just get a radiator for a 304 CJ of your year. If you have a choice of standard or heavy duty, get the heavy duty one. The fan shroud is also available from the aftermarket, and would boost cooling capacity some.

 

How do I setup a signature? Mine is a 75 CJ6. Yes heavy duty but do I go with a copper one or a modern aluminium one? I will be running a electric fan no no shroud is required.

 

Aluminum or copper/brass is a personal choice. Aluminum radiators have come a long way in recent years and the prices (in the U.S.) have come way Down in price. In some cases cheaper than traditional styles. I prefer welded not epoxied units for strength. Aluminum radiators are typically lighter and more efficient but require more attention to cooling system services (regular maintenance). Either will serve just fine depending on what you have readily available to you

 

....can't stresss the fan shroud enough...totally worth it!!

 

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Aluminum is significantly more efficient. I switched from a 4 row brass to a two row aluminum, same outside dimensions, and the coolant temp droped 15 degrees F and now stays at the thermostat temp. 15 to 20 lbs lighter. Just stay with an all welded unit as noted.

 

If you go with Aluminum, make sure the coolant you use doesnt have to high of a PH. Otherwise, the radiator wont last as long as it should. The corrosiveness of the high pH will eat away at the aluminum rows from the inside out. Aluminum is happiest in the 4-9 PH range. Try not to exceed 9. TRaditional "Green" AF has a much higher PH. Usually 10-12.5. I'd go with the brass as it will last much longer being a more noble metal.

 

I am running a 360, I have a replacement radiator for the CJ5 with a 304 and a fan shroud. I have a 16" Flex A Lite direct drive fan and has never overheated.

 

where do you get aftermarket shroud for 73 cj5 with 304.

 

rockauto has an Omix-Ada replacement for about $100. I have been kicking around the idea of purchasing one for my '74, but that seems like an awful lot for a plastic shroud.

 

Check the Jeep specialty sellers, like Oconee Jeep, Krage, Turner, etc. They should all have it.