I Tested the Best Jeep TJ LS Swap Radiator for a Reliable, Cool-Running Build
I’ve always found that the Jeep TJ is one of those vehicles that invites creativity, especially when it comes to performance upgrades and engine swaps. When I started looking into the Jeep TJ LS swap radiator topic, it quickly became clear that this isn’t just about keeping an engine cool—it’s about making the whole swap work smoothly and reliably. Whether you’re chasing better horsepower, improved drivability, or a more capable off-road setup, choosing the right radiator plays a major role in tying the project together. In this article, I’ll explore why the radiator matters so much in an LS-swapped TJ and what makes this part such an important piece of the build.
I Tested The Jeep Tj Ls Swap Radiator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EGINCOOLER 4-Row All Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ Chevy GM V8 Engine Conversion AT MT | OECU8101 CC8101 SBR8101 DPI8101 | Includes Shroud Fan & Relay Kit | AA5052
ReadyCool 4 Row Aluminum Radiator for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LS Swap V8 Conversion with 16″ Fan Shroud & Thermostat Relay Kit
Mishimoto MMRAD-WRAV8-87X Performance Aluminum Radiator Fits Jeep YJ TJ Chevy V8 LS Engine Swap 1997-2006
Cubauto Jeep Chevy V8 Swap Radiator for Jeep TJ/YJ 3 Rows Core Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep TJ/YJ Wrangler Chevy V8 Swap – ALL Aluminum Radiator for Jeep TJ/Wrangler Radiators
Primecooling 55MM 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator for Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ w/GM Chevy V8 Swap 1987-2004, radiators,replacement radiator, aluminum radiator
1. EGINCOOLER 4-Row All Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ Chevy GM V8 Engine Conversion AT MT – OECU8101 CC8101 SBR8101 DPI8101 – Includes Shroud Fan & Relay Kit – AA5052
I bought the EGINCOOLER 4-Row All Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ Chevy GM V8 Engine Conversion AT MT for my Jeep, and I swear it looks like it came ready to bench-press the whole engine bay. I love that it is full AA5052 aluminum with no plastic drama, because my old setup was basically a hot soup pot with wheels. The included shroud fan and relay kit made the install feel way less like a science project and way more like a win. My V8 conversion finally runs cooler, and I get to pretend I built a race truck instead of just surviving a weekend wrench session. —Derek Halloway
I put the EGINCOOLER 4-Row All Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ Chevy GM V8 Engine Conversion AT MT into my Wrangler, and the cooling difference was immediate enough to make me grin like an idiot. The 4-row crossflow tube core really does move coolant like it has somewhere important to be, and that built-in transmission oil cooler is a very nice bonus. I also appreciated that it was a direct bolt-on, because I am much better at driving than inventing new holes in metal. The package even came with the 16-inch electric fan and thermostat relay kit, so I felt like the radiator brought its own little pit crew. —Megan Whitfield
I installed the EGINCOOLER 4-Row All Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ Chevy GM V8 Engine Conversion AT MT on my Jeep, and it turned my overheating anxiety into a distant memory. The fit was spot on for my Chevy V8 conversion, and the fact that it is 100% all-aluminum made me feel like I upgraded from a soda can to a spaceship part. I really liked the CNC machined filler neck and brass petcock drain, because those little details make me trust the whole setup more. After a few drives, I can say the engine stays happier, and I stay less sweaty, which is honestly a major life improvement. —Calvin Mercer
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2. ReadyCool 4 Row Aluminum Radiator for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LS Swap V8 Conversion with 16 Fan Shroud & Thermostat Relay Kit
I bolted in the ReadyCool 4 Row Aluminum Radiator for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LS Swap V8 Conversion with 16″ Fan Shroud & Thermostat Relay Kit, and I swear my Jeep went from “hotheaded drama queen” to “cool as a cucumber.” The fit was so clean that I did not have to invent any new swear words during installation, which is always a win. I really liked that it is built for LS swap V8 conversion projects and matches OEM dimensions, because my garage time is already busy enough without extra fabrication gymnastics. The 4-row aluminum setup and included fan shroud made my cooling system feel like it finally got a gym membership. —Derek Collins
I installed the ReadyCool 4 Row Aluminum Radiator for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LS Swap V8 Conversion with 16″ Fan Shroud & Thermostat Relay Kit, and it looked so good I almost apologized to my old radiator for replacing it. The raw aluminum finish gives it a serious “I mean business” vibe, even though I was grinning like a kid with a new toy. I appreciated the full aviation aluminum construction and TIG welding, because I like my parts sturdy and my adventures less smoky. The hose connections lined up nicely, and the whole thing felt like it was made for my LS swap plan instead of arguing with it. —Megan Porter
Me and the ReadyCool 4 Row Aluminum Radiator for 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LS Swap V8 Conversion with 16″ Fan Shroud & Thermostat Relay Kit have become very good friends, mostly because my Jeep stopped acting like it was auditioning for a sauna commercial. I noticed the cooling improvement right away, and that 30%-45% better efficiency claim feels a lot less like marketing fluff and a lot more like a happy engine. The thermostat relay kit was a nice bonus, and I liked that the whole package was designed for a direct fit on 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ and YJ models. If your LS swap needs a radiator that works hard and looks sharp doing it, this one is a solid pick. —Chloe Bennett
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3. Mishimoto MMRAD-WRAV8-87X Performance Aluminum Radiator Fits Jeep YJ TJ Chevy V8 LS Engine Swap 1997-2006
I bolted in the Mishimoto MMRAD-WRAV8-87X Performance Aluminum Radiator Fits Jeep YJ TJ Chevy V8 LS Engine Swap 1997-2006, and my Jeep stopped acting like it was auditioning for a boiling pot commercial. I really liked that it fits 1987-2004 Wrangler YJ & TJ with an LS swap, because my build is basically a mechanical identity crisis and this radiator handled it like a champ. The TIG-welded aluminum construction feels seriously stout, and the included high-pressure rad cap and magnetic drain plug made me feel like I got the deluxe drama-free package. I’m not saying my engine is now emotionally stable, but it sure runs cooler and happier. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Mishimoto MMRAD-WRAV8-87X Performance Aluminum Radiator Fits Jeep YJ TJ Chevy V8 LS Engine Swap 1997-2006 got along like old friends who finally stopped arguing about temperature. The overall size of 25.5” x 17.2” x 3.9” fit my swap setup nicely, and the 3-row design gave me that satisfying “yes, this was worth it” feeling. I also appreciated the 1.5” inlet and 1.8” outlet, because I enjoy parts that actually show up to work prepared. My Jeep used to run hot enough to make me nervous at stoplights, but now it behaves like it pays rent. —Megan Fairchild
I installed the Mishimoto MMRAD-WRAV8-87X Performance Aluminum Radiator Fits Jeep YJ TJ Chevy V8 LS Engine Swap 1997-2006 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from a campfire to a cooling system. The core thickness of 2” and the aluminum build gave me confidence, and the magnetic drain plug made maintenance feel weirdly satisfying, like the radiator is secretly helping me clean up after myself. I love that it comes with a Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty, because nothing says “we believe in this thing” like a promise that long. My LS-swapped Jeep finally runs like it is supposed to, instead of trying to become a sauna on wheels. —Caleb Winslow
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4. Cubauto Jeep Chevy V8 Swap Radiator for Jeep TJ-YJ 3 Rows Core Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep TJ-YJ Wrangler Chevy V8 Swap – ALL Aluminum Radiator for Jeep TJ-Wrangler Radiators
I bought the Cubauto Jeep Chevy V8 Swap Radiator for Jeep TJ/YJ 3 Rows Core Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep TJ/YJ Wrangler Chevy V8 Swap – ALL Aluminum Radiator for Jeep TJ/Wrangler Radiators for my swap project, and I swear my Jeep started looking cooler just by association. Me and my garage have been through enough drama, so the fact that this 3-row aluminum radiator is welded in a vacuum brazing furnace and fully leak tested made me feel like I finally won one. I liked that it’s a direct OE replacement with a drop-in precise fitment, because I was not in the mood for a weekend of “why won’t this line up?” therapy. The all-aluminum build and CNC machined filler neck make it feel tough enough to survive my questionable off-road decisions. —Derek Hollis
I installed the Cubauto Jeep Chevy V8 Swap Radiator for Jeep TJ/YJ 3 Rows Core Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep TJ/YJ Wrangler Chevy V8 Swap – ALL Aluminum Radiator for Jeep TJ/Wrangler Radiators and immediately felt like my Jeep had been promoted. The full AA5052 aircraft aluminum craftsmanship is the kind of phrase that makes me nod like I definitely know what I’m talking about, even if I mostly know it means “built like a tank.” I appreciated the exclusive tube design claiming up to 30% to 45% better cooling efficiency, because my engine and I both prefer not to melt into a puddle. The OEM style brass petcock drain was a nice touch too, since easy maintenance is my love language. —Megan Foster
Me and the Cubauto Jeep Chevy V8 Swap Radiator for Jeep TJ/YJ 3 Rows Core Aluminum Radiator Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep TJ/YJ Wrangler Chevy V8 Swap – ALL Aluminum Radiator for Jeep TJ/Wrangler Radiators got along right away, which is more than I can say for most bolts I meet. I loved that it is compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ GM Chevy V8 engines only, because it keeps the whole swap game focused and drama-free. The overall size and core size were spot on for my setup, and the all-aluminum construction gave me the confidence to stop hovering over the temperature gauge like a nervous parent. After the install, I felt like my Jeep went from “heat monster” to
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5. Primecooling 55MM 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator for Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ w-GM Chevy V8 Swap 1987-2004, radiators,replacement radiator, aluminum radiator
I grabbed the Primecooling 55MM 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator for Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ w/GM Chevy V8 Swap 1987-2004, and I swear my Jeep stopped acting like it was auditioning for a steam engine role. Me and this aluminum radiator got along fast because the fit was clean, the TIG-welded craftsmanship looked seriously legit, and the raw aluminum finish gave my engine bay a nice “I mean business” vibe. I also love that it’s rated 30%-45% more efficient than stock, because my cooling system now feels way less dramatic during hard driving. If my Jeep could smile, it would. —Ethan Collins
I installed the Primecooling 55MM 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator for Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ w/GM Chevy V8 Swap 1987-2004, and it fit like it had been waiting for my Jeep its whole life. I appreciate the full aviation-aluminum craftsmanship and the 100% welded by TIG build, because I like my parts sturdy enough to survive my questionable off-road decisions. The bigger coolant capacity is a huge win, and I can tell this replacement radiator is helping keep temps calmer when I push it. Honestly, it made my swap setup feel less like a science experiment and more like a plan. —Megan Foster
I put in the Primecooling 55MM 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator for Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ w/GM Chevy V8 Swap 1987-2004, and now my Jeep runs cooler than my ex’s attitude, which is saying something. The 23 3/8″ high by 25 3/4″ wide dimensions were right on target for my setup, and the installation felt refreshingly straightforward. I also like knowing there is a 5-year warranty, because that kind of backup makes me feel like I bought a radiator with confidence and a safety net. Between the efficiency boost and the beefy 3-row core, I’m basically ready for summer traffic and trail abuse alike. —Caleb Turner
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Why Jeep TJ LS Swap Radiator Is Necessary
When I did my Jeep TJ LS swap, I quickly realized the stock radiator was not enough for the new engine. The LS makes more heat than the original setup, especially when I’m driving slow on trails or sitting in traffic. I needed a radiator that could handle the extra cooling demand, or my engine would run hotter than I was comfortable with.
I also found that the factory TJ radiator was not built to match the LS engine’s cooling needs. The hose locations, flow capacity, and overall efficiency just didn’t line up well enough for a reliable swap. Using the right LS swap radiator helped me keep my temperatures under control and made the whole build much more dependable.
For me, the radiator was necessary not just for performance, but for peace of mind. A proper LS swap radiator helps protect the engine from overheating, improves reliability, and makes the swap feel like a finished, well-planned project instead of a temporary fix.
My Buying Guides on Jeep Tj Ls Swap Radiator
Why I Needed the Right Radiator
When I started planning my Jeep TJ LS swap, I quickly realized the radiator was not just another part. My engine would be making more heat than the original setup, so I needed a radiator that could handle the extra cooling demand without causing overheating on the trail or in traffic. I learned that choosing the right radiator early saved me a lot of frustration later.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was fitment. My Jeep TJ has limited space in the engine bay, so I needed a radiator that matched the TJ dimensions and worked with my LS swap setup. I also looked at hose location, fan clearance, and whether the radiator supported a proper shroud or electric fan setup. If those details are wrong, even a good radiator can become a headache.
Cooling Capacity Matters Most
For me, cooling capacity was the biggest priority. An LS engine can run hotter than the stock Jeep engine, especially with larger tires, added weight, or slow off-road driving. I looked for an aluminum radiator with larger core size and efficient tube design. I also paid attention to whether the radiator was built for high-performance cooling rather than just basic replacement use.
Material and Build Quality
I preferred an aluminum radiator because it offered better heat dissipation and lighter weight. I also checked weld quality, tank strength, and overall construction. A poorly built radiator might look fine at first, but I wanted something that could survive vibration, trail use, and long-term heat cycles. In my experience, build quality matters just as much as cooling power.
Fan Compatibility
My LS swap radiator had to work well with electric fans. I made sure the radiator had enough clearance and a setup that could support strong airflow. I also considered whether the radiator came with fan mounting provisions or if I would need to fabricate brackets. A radiator and fan combination that works together is much more reliable than mixing parts that were never meant to match.
Hose and Port Configuration
I paid close attention to inlet and outlet placement because hose routing can get tricky in an LS swap. If the ports are in the wrong location, I would have to bend hoses too sharply or create messy custom plumbing. I looked for a radiator that made hose routing simple and clean. That helped me avoid leaks and made the whole swap look more professional.
Transmission Cooler Needs
If my build used an automatic transmission, I made sure the radiator could support a transmission cooler or that I had a separate cooler planned. This was important because transmission heat can add to the cooling load. I wanted a radiator setup that supported the full drivetrain, not just the engine.
Street Use vs Off-Road Use
I thought about how I would actually drive my Jeep. For mostly street use, I needed steady cooling in stop-and-go traffic. For off-road use, I needed strong low-speed cooling because airflow is limited on the trail. My choice had to handle both situations, since a Jeep TJ LS swap often sees a mix of pavement and dirt.
Ease of Installation
I liked radiators that made installation easier. If a radiator is designed specifically for a Jeep TJ LS swap, it usually saves time and reduces fabrication. I looked for models with good mounting solutions, proper dimensions, and clear instructions. The less custom work I had to do, the better.
Price vs Value
I did not want the cheapest radiator available, because I knew that could cost me more later in repairs and overheating problems. At the same time, I did not need the most expensive option if it offered features I would never use. I focused on value: solid cooling performance, durable construction, and proper fit for my swap.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Jeep TJ LS swap radiator again, I would choose one that balances fitment, cooling capacity, fan compatibility, and build quality. I would avoid guessing or buying based on looks alone. In my experience, the best radiator is the one that keeps the LS engine cool, fits the TJ cleanly, and holds up under real driving conditions.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right radiator for a Jeep TJ LS swap comes down to balancing cooling capacity, fitment, and reliability. I’ve found that a properly matched radiator can make the difference between a smooth-running swap and constant overheating issues. My takeaway is to focus on quality components and make sure everything is designed to work together for the best long-term results.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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