How hard is it to replace a radiator on a 1997 Jeep Cherokee?

Question

I need to replace the radiator on my 1997 Jeep Cherokee.  I plan to do the work myself.  I'm mechanically inclined but have never replaced a radiator.  How difficult is it to do?

Mike S · Accepted Answer

We got pretty quick at doing these on a friends Jeep when she tried a series of used radiators.

Just drain the coolant.  Usually by removing the lower radiator hose.  It makes a mess so be prepared to catch the potentially toxic fluid.  Keep your pets away.

Remove the plate that connects the two sides of the front end.  This plate covers the radiator.  

Disconnect the AC condenser mounting tabs.

Remove the electric fan and the shroud from the mechanical fan.  You can leave the shroud wrapped around the fan just disconnect it from the radiator.

Remove the radiator and swap in the new one.  Reconnect every thing and fill it back up with coolant.

The 4.0 often traps air in the head when you swap out the radiator.  The coolant level will drop after a few heat cool cycles as the air works its way out.

Mike

http://mikestrawbridge.com/jeep-cherokee-off-road.shtml

conaway · Answer

1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Radiator

Anonymous · Answer

I have replaced a radiator in a wrangler and a water pump in a 2001 grand. I have maybe a little mechanical ability but I can tell you it shouldn't be a $600 job. Its about $100 to $150 for an all metal one. DO NOT BUY FROM JEEP!!!!!!!!!!!!! They are plastic on the top and bottom with metal in the middle and pressed together. If I was betting man I would say you either cracked the top or bottom or it has separated in the joint between the metal and plastic. One of the biggest problems is breaking the neck when you try to replaces hoses. As far as a flush, when they change the radiator they should do that, there is more to it than just draining the old radiator, not much but a little more. Sprinkle talks about an 8cyl, mine is a 6. It could easily be more complicated on the 8cyl. I would still call around for a second estimate. Don't drive it!!! Call around to get your second opinion.

Arman · Answer

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RE:
How hard is it to replace a radiator on a 1997 Jeep Cherokee?
I need to replace the radiator on my 1997 Jeep Cherokee.  I plan to do the work myself.  I'm mechanically inclined but have never replaced a radiator.  How difficult is it to do?

ronald h · Answer

Easy. Disconnect hoses and the tranny coolant line, remove not more than 4 bolts at the top and it should slide on out.

want_know · Answer

it not hard it take about 1 1/2 hour if you go to pepurcar.com and ask one of their master tech how to change it, they will tell you what tools needed and how to change it step by step and its free service

itsthewill · Answer

usually, not a hard job

How hard is it to replace a radiator on a 1997 Jeep Cherokee?

7 Answers