1994 Jeep Cherokee Overheating

JEEP CHEROKEE
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ESJ2131987
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  • 2 POSTS
I have a 1994 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a 6 cylinder engine. It also has about 123,000 miles. We have an overheating problem, and we think that the problem is due to a radiator leakage, since we have recently had the thermostat replaced. My question is, is it possible that we can burn the air conditioner to keep cool, in any way, until we get the radiator replaced? Please let me know what you think about this issue and question. Thank you so very much!
Jun 21, 2006 at 8:28 AM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
running the air will only make it overheat worse. the thing to do is turn the heat on full so the heater core can help cool the coolant. i know it sounds like a joke but it works. sounds like a water pump going bad of a cracked waterjacket in the motor block. if the car still overheats after 25 mph, try knocking the junk out of the fins in the radiator and air cooling fins at the front of the car with a water hose with high pressure. also check the cooling fans and make sure they are working.
Jun 25, 2006 at 2:30 AM

Suggested Repair

Do not run the air conditioner, because it can make overheating worse. Use full heat so the heater core helps cool the coolant. Check for a failing water pump or cracked engine water jacket, clean debris from the radiator and front cooling fins, and confirm the cooling fans work.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1994 Jeep Cherokee with about 123,000 miles reports overheating after a thermostat replacement and suspects a leaking radiator. They ask whether the air conditioner can be used for cooling until the radiator is replaced. The expert says running the air conditioner will worsen overheating and recommends full heat so the heater core provides extra cooling. The expert also suggests checking a failing water pump or cracked water jacket, cleaning the radiator and front cooling fins, and verifying that the cooling fans work.

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