Frustration

I’ve been trying to complete some work on the Jeepster Commando. When I purchased it I knew the radiator was leaking. I have a 225 v6/automatic which has the transmission cooler integral to the radiator. I took my original to a radiator shop where they cleaned and tested it. Unfortunately it was too far gone to be saved. Next I took a second stock radiator, with trans cooler, to the shop. Cleaned, tested, and sort of repaired. He told me he head soldered it best he could, but that it wouldn’t last. I started checking all of the parts suppliers online. Most had replacements for manual trans, but no one had the trans cooler. Then what I needed popped up on Kaiser Willys. I ordered it, life intervened, and a couple of months later I got around to installing it. Last Thursday I pulled the old one and put the new one in. Cooler lines hooked up, I manually rotated the fan. &$#@#$$#@&#@3#@2@$$$+$$-it!!! The stock fan blades hit both cooler lines. After some sleuthing I found the trans cooler fittings are not in the same position as the originals. On the stock rad the fittings are about 13” apart. The replacement they are only about 7 1/2” apart, which moves them into the arc of the fan. A call to KW gave the response, we’ve not heard of that problem. I asked if he could measure a new on at the his location, “we don’t stock them, they are shipped directly from the manufacturer. “ He sent me a return label. I was very frustrated.

Speaking of trans cooler lines. Mine were getting pretty old and checked. I was able to source them from the jeepsterman. When they arrived, the male fitting that threads into the radiator was too large, and the line was an inch shorter than advertised. A call to them and they said they would remake them and ship them out. I received the replacements on Friday. (While my frustration level was very high). You guessed it, fittings are too small. Enjoy the pics below and thanks for letting me vent.

 

I think I would call the radiator manufacturer and ask them directly about the transmission cooler line connections. They may have a suggestion.

 

For the cooler lines, I'd take them to a shop that builds hydraulic hoses and get new ones made.

 

Already returned.

 

That’s the plan. Just very frustrating to order “direct replacement” parts that don’t fit.

 

Just normal Jeep life. Glad you were able to to do a return.

 

I'm having similar issues with my CJ brakes.

 

Have you tried any online aluminum radiator builders? I would add "vintage" or custom to your search.
Same goes for the hydraulic lines, lots of choices on the webs.
Like you, I've been dissatisfied with some of the stuff coming from the usual vendors so I've found it's worth the effort to look beyond...

 

My problem stems from not wanting to change from the original style integral transmission cooler. I don’t care for the look of the aftermarket trans cooler peeking through the grill. That said, I have a couple of manufacturers to check with before I go that route. It’ll have to wait a while as I have other projects going right now. Just wanted to let others know these aren’t “replacement” parts.

 

I wasn't referring to a separate cooler, just suggested finding someone else to build a complete unit to your specs

 

If it was black it would not be very noticeable....and it's better for your transmission.