Front Range 4x4 Upcoming Trail Runs - Add a New Trail Run

Results 1 to 3 of 3

Thread: 98 grand cherokee limited 5.9 seems to run hot

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jul 2018
    Member
    #2185
    Last Online
    October 5th, 2018
    Location
    Red Feather Lakes
    4x4
    98 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limted, Suzuki Samurai
    Posts
    6
    User Name
    clkid
    Real Name
    David
    Thanks Given
    2
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default 98 grand cherokee limited 5.9 seems to run hot



    Really planned to hit some trails with the group this summer using a 98 grand Cherokee limited with a 5.9. Ever since I bought this Jeep it seemed to me it ran on the warm side, as in the 190 to 230 range. At least that is what the after market temp gauge was giving me as a reading. At about 230 this thing starts to boil and ghat ain't good. The original temp gauge stop working two weeks after obtaining the Jeep. Between the temp control devices that are in the upper and lower radiator hoses, the relays, and the electric fan, there seems to be no end to problems. Electric fan stopped so replaced that, then the sending units in the radiator hoses malfunctioned, so those were replaced with some but not total success. Fan runs on high speed, kicking in at 187 to 190, with temp going to 195 or sometimes 200 if you are working the engine on a grade. Low speed never has worked but relay has not been replaced. Last weekend went up to Long Draw Res on a shake down run and the radiator developed a major leak. Replaced the radiator and am thinking about going to a 160 degree thermostat, it has a 180 in it now. I think some of the problem my be air flow restriction from the winch on the front. There is a after market tranny cooler in front of the air conditioning unit and the radiator. Information on the internet indicates this thing is suppose to run in the 210 range, but that sound dam high to me.Oh, and radiator is a new 18 pound cap. Call me a paranoid old man, but I'm not sure I trust this thing on the trails. Anyone out there have any suggestions or had experience with a 5.9 MoPar???? Would going to a mechanical fan and junking the electric fan have any merit???

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jun 2011
    Member
    #867
    Last Online
    25 Minutes Ago
    Location
    Englewood
    4x4
    Jeep Cherokee XJ
    Posts
    3,566
    User Name
    xaza
    Real Name
    Cliff
    Thanks Given
    171
    Thanked 592 Times in 445 Posts

    Default Re: 98 grand cherokee limited 5.9 seems to run hot



    The fan system is a PITA. Different sensors to control different speeds with combination of 3 relays if I remember correctly. Finding replacement sensors is like pulling teeth. 180 degree is already cooler than stock, stock is 195 IIRC. Another website that might provide you some answers on these is speedfreaks.com. It is a very slow site now, but guys are still checking in occasionally. All my Jeeps have run right around 210, that is normal for them. If you are able to hold steady at around 200 then I would say you are doing good. There are other after market fans you can try and make work but I think you are better off with electric over mechanical on something that will be spending long periods of time revving at low speeds.
    ___________
    We do not remember days, we remember moments.

    Cesare Pavese

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jun 2015
    Member
    #1730
    Last Online
    November 3rd, 2023
    Location
    Denver
    Age
    58
    4x4
    84 CJ8
    Posts
    735
    User Name
    Spieg
    Real Name
    Brian
    Thanks Given
    179
    Thanked 165 Times in 144 Posts

    Default Re: 98 grand cherokee limited 5.9 seems to run hot



    Agree 205-210 is pretty normal operating temp (230 is too high). I know some people that bypassed sensors so the fan runs on high all the time (a bit noisy at times but never have to worry about multiple sensors/relays going out on you). Switching to a mechanical fan may be an option if you have room for it behind the radiator.
    ___________
    ~Not All Who Wander Are Lost~ (at least not all the time)

Similar Threads

  1. Grand Cherokee Steering ZJ 4.0 vs 5.2
    By Danimal in forum General 4x4 Tech Topics
    Replies: 38
    Last Post: June 2nd, 2017, 07:25 PM
  2. FS: 1995 Grand Cherokee $700 obo
    By Patrolman in forum For Sale, Wanted, Trade, Free
    Replies: 0
    Last Post: November 4th, 2016, 09:16 AM
  3. 94 Grand Cherokee $1,000
    By Patrolman in forum Cool Finds
    Replies: 0
    Last Post: May 26th, 2014, 08:46 PM
  4. Grand Cherokee Advice
    By Java in forum Chat
    Replies: 11
    Last Post: November 2nd, 2013, 11:51 PM
  5. Best WJ Grand Cherokee?
    By Java in forum General Topics
    Replies: 10
    Last Post: June 28th, 2013, 07:02 AM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  
BACK TO TOP