Radiator with Cap for Jeep Wrangler JK 2007-2018 3.6L 3.8L V6, Direct Replacement CU2957 68143886AA, OE-Style 26mm Aluminum Core BDFHYK

Restore reliable cooling performance with this direct-fit replacement radiator for Jeep Wrangler JK and Wrangler JK Unlimited models.

Designed for 2007-2018 Jeep JK applications with 3.8L and 3.6L V6 engines, this radiator features a 26mm aluminum core and OE-style mounting points to replace a leaking, damaged, clogged, or aging factory radiator.

Vehicle Fitment & OE Reference Numbers

OE / Interchange Reference Numbers: CU2957, 2957, 68143886AA, 68143886AB, 55056634AB.

Before ordering: Compare the OE number, overall dimensions, inlet and outlet positions, mounting points, drain location, and fan shroud mounting configuration with the original radiator.

Choosing Between 26mm OE Replacement and 44mm Upgrade Radiator

Jeep Wrangler JK owners have different cooling needs. Choose the radiator based on your driving conditions.

Choose 26mm if:

✓ Your factory radiator is leaking or damaged
✓ You want a direct replacement solution
✓ Your Jeep is mainly used for commuting and highway driving
✓ You prefer factory-style cooling performance

Product Specifications

Signs Your Radiator Needs Replacement

• The engine runs hotter than normal or overheats during idling, climbing, towing, or slow-speed trail driving.
• Coolant leaks appear around the radiator tanks, seams, hose connections, drain area, or lower corners.
• The coolant level drops repeatedly without an obvious hose leak.
• Plastic end tanks are cracked, swollen, discolored, or separating from the core.
• Cooling fins are bent, clogged, corroded, or damaged.
• The temperature gauge fluctuates during stop-and-go traffic, hot weather, or off-road use.

Replacing a worn or damaged radiator helps restore coolant flow and heat transfer, reducing the risk of repeated overheating and related engine damage.

Key Features & Benefits

Direct OE-Style Replacement: Designed around factory mounting locations, hose connections, and fan shroud positioning for easier replacement installation.

26mm Aluminum OE-Style Core: Designed to match factory radiator specifications, the 26mm aluminum core provides reliable heat transfer performance for everyday Jeep Wrangler JK driving conditions. 

Restore Factory Cooling Performance: Helps replace radiators affected by leaks, corrosion, clogged passages, damaged fins, or aging components.

Lightweight Aluminum Construction: The aluminum core provides corrosion resistance and efficient heat transfer while maintaining a factory-style replacement design.

Installation Notes & 4-Step Guide

Important: The cooling system may be pressurized and contain hot coolant. Allow the engine to cool completely before beginning. Professional installation is recommended if you are not experienced with cooling-system service.

1. Drain: Disconnect the battery if required, remove the radiator cap only after the engine has fully cooled, and drain the old coolant into a suitable container.
2. Remove: Disconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses, overflow hose, fan shroud or fan assembly, and factory mounting hardware. Remove the old radiator carefully.
3. Install: Compare both radiators before fitting. Transfer reusable brackets, cushions, drain plugs, sensors, fittings, or fan shroud hardware when required, then install the new radiator using the factory mounting points.
4. Refill & Bleed: Reconnect all hoses, refill with the vehicle manufacturer-recommended coolant mixture, bleed trapped air from the cooling system, and inspect all connections for leaks.

After installation: Inspect the radiator hoses, clamps, cap, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant reservoir, and water pump. Run the engine until operating temperature is reached, confirm fan operation, check all connections for leakage, and recheck the coolant level after the first drive and again after the engine cools.