Do I need a regear?

[jmh36]

Posted about this earlier, but the problem has worsened since then. I recently upgraded to 37's and a 3.5 lift on my 2.0 turbo Rubicon. Mechanics said a regear would only be necessary if I wanted more power back. The jeep still has plenty of pick up for me and the RPM's don't seem to be off the charts by any means. As of late, I have been hearing my engine fan way more loud and way more often. Just this week (almost a month after tires/lift installed) I am starting to see the temperature go up way past where they should, but only every once in a while and only after slowing down. My first thought was that I need a regear and this is causing my issues - but I started to wonder, why would this only overheat sometimes? Why can I drive 40 mins on and off highways with no issues some times but overheat randomly every few days? And wouldn't this problem have been there from the first day I got my lift? I have no problem going for a regear, but if it is not causing these problems, I would not be considering one at all. Any info / advice is appreciated

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[Some Random Guy]

Is it actually overheating or is it just running warmer than it was a few months ago? Between bigger tires and rising temperatures, what you describe seems fine as long as it’s not actually overheating. Airflow in the highway probably helps, then when you slow down it heat soaks again.
All bets are off if it’s actually throwing alerts, then something else is up.

 

[c20040215]

Bigger tires and wind resistance increase the engine load and subsequently increase the working temperature slightly makes sense. However, if its overheating, you might have a different problem.

Regardless of the overheating, I would suggest, if you have the chance, to test drive a similar set up jeep that has done re-gear (4.88 or 5.13 are most common for 37s), you would change the way you see re-gearing.

A properly geared Jeep drives so much better.

 

[jmh36]

Is it actually overheating or is it just running warmer than it was a few months ago? Between bigger tires and rising temperatures, what you describe seems fine as long as it’s not actually overheating. Airflow in the highway probably helps, then when you slow down it heat soaks again.
All bets are off if it’s actually throwing alerts, then something else is up.

One time this week it actually overheated and the temp bar went all the way up, turned red, etc. I have no idea if this reading is accurate or if the issue is the internal thermometer itself. Nothing besides the temp gauge and sound of the fan to make me think the car is overheating. Also - nothing different from that drive than any other to work. We’ve had pretty consistent weather this week and I’ve been windows down no A/C every day

 

[jmh36]

Bigger tires and wind resistance increase the engine load and subsequently increase the working temperature slightly makes sense. However, if its overheating, you might have a different problem.

Regardless of the overheating, I would suggest, if you have the chance, to test drive a similar set up jeep that has done re-gear (4.88 or 5.13 are most common for 37s), you would change the way you see re-gearing.

A properly geared Jeep drives so much better.

i don’t doubt that, but right now I’m happy with how the Jeep drives, so if I can save myself the cash for the regear than I will? agreed with your first statement too. That’s what has me so confused. I understand the fan will be working harder but why does it appear to not work well enough sometimes

 

[word302]

A regear is not going to solve your problem. There is something else going on with your motor.

 

[jmh36]

Earliest I can get into the dealership for service is June 24, hoping I don’t end up on the side of the road in the mean time

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