So, after lurking here for a while, and attempting to search the threads, I've thrown up my hands and I'm hoping a fellow XJ'r will lend me a hand.

I've got a '98 with the inline six. After replacing the thermostat, the head gasket, valve cover gasket, and intake/exhaust manifold gasket the radiator drain petcock has developed a steady drip. It's not enough that I couldn't drive it and keep up with replacing fluid, but it is enough to get me worried.

Before I drop a new radiator in I'd like to attempt replacing the petcock itself (cause it's less than $6!).

My questions:

Has anybody done this?
How does the old one come out?
Napa lists this one:
http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Det...+50038+2038004
Parts geek lists this one:
http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/199...n_petcock.html

Parts geek looks correct, but I still can't picture how to get the old one out.

I'm not opposed to some kind of "bastard" fix that would just plug it permanently then I'll use the hose to drain it in the future.

 

Bump.

Is it a better option to drop the $110 and replace the radiator?

 

i just unscrewed the petcock in my tj and replaced it with one from the help section at canadian tire. but any part store should have a replacement.
it's been fine for the last 4 years.
i actually bought 2, just in case.

 

Thanks Caged. Problem is the one that is in there and the replacement one don't appear to unscrew. It rotates about a 1/4 turn then pulls out to a stop. Then it drains. The replacement from Part's Geek appears to snap into place. So I'm not sure how the original will release from radiator. And I don't like the idea of breaking off a chunk of plastic inside the radiator.


Since the replacement is only $6, I'm leaning towards ordering it, and spending Saturday morn trying to figure it out. Worst case, it doesn't fit and I gotta run to Advanced and get a radiator. I'll have the grill, and cowl off to try to replace the petcock, so I'll be halfway to pulling the radiator if that's what I have to do.

 

Get rid of the stock radiator and go to an all metal rad without a petcock.

 

I'll keep that option on the table Jeepguy.

However the shop manager at the local Jeep dealership hooked me up with a couple new o-rings, after I was able to pop the old petcock out. So far so good!!

 

scottm,

How did you get the original petcock out? On my 1999 XJ I can get to it (behind headlight and turn signal), turn it completely, and see the blasted leak going "drip, drip, drip", but I'm having a doozy of a time removing it. The angle is so awkward, and I am also worried about breaking off something inside. Any pointers would be GREATLY appreciated!

 

I can't understand why they put the petcock in such an awkward place, its such a pain to deal with

 

You don't need to remove it completely. Just back it out, and it should unblock and drain hole on the back of the radiator.

 

In the future, drain the radiator by dropping the lower hose. Easier and safer.

The petcock is under-designed and prone to failure.

 

^^This^^
This is the best way to drain you radiator.

 

Thanks to all for your speedy replies! Fortunately, the lower rad hose is what I have used in the past for draining/flushing (as recommended by just about every source... except for the service manual).

What I am trying to accomplish, at present, with the petcock is to address a leak. Even when closed, there is a constant drip from the drain hole. The difficulty I'm facing is removing it, so i can either remedy the issue or replace it completely.

 

Sorry I couldn't have been much help. But personally I've never encountered this problem.
Good luck.

 

sorry to bring up such an old thread but i am having the same problem - leaking from the petcock - think bars stop leak would work or no?

 

Don't like your heater huh? then just go ahead.