Leaking radiator on 2.5

[NMIJEEPGUY]

I have a new to me 98 SE 2.5L, 109K with what appears to be a leaking radiator. I've noticed on two separate occasions a bit of coolant has sprayed under the hood. It appears to have only happened on short trips < 3 miles and in cooler weather. I'm assuming on these short trips the t-stat is not opening to relieve the pressure on the system, hence the radiator leaking at the upper seam?

Under normal driving conditions, trips going on 100+ miles I've noticed no spray and everything seems to be functioning as it should. Temp is reading right around 210. I did just install a new Stant 18LB radiator cap because for less than $5 bucks, why not.

Is it time to just overhaul the complete cooling system?

 

[Chris]

It's likely your radiator, but you could figure out for sure with either some U.V. dye or a pressure test.

At 109k miles though and 22 years of age, I would just overhaul the entire cooling system.

If you choose to do that, see this thread:

Jeep Wrangler TJ Cooling System Overhaul FAQ

 

[Jerry Bransford]

It's likely your radiator, but you could figure out for sure with either some U.V. dye or a pressure test.

At 109k miles though and 22 years of age, I would just overhaul the entire cooling system.

If you choose to do that, see this thread:

Jeep Wrangler TJ Cooling System Overhaul FAQ

X2, and stay Mopar where the cooling system is concerned. Mopar's radiator out-cools 99.99% of the radiators out there and so far we haven't found that reasonably priced .01% that equals its cooling ability let alone outperforms it. Same with the water pump. Make sure to avoid store brands and internet specials.

 

[NMIJEEPGUY]

Chris/Jerry thanks for the quick responses. Looks like I've got some reading/part stockpiling to do. My plan is to drive it the rest of the summer/fall here in Northern MI and then tackle the repair either late fall/ early spring as I plan to park the TJ for the winter.