I do a lot of mudding here in Costa Rica. A couple of things I can say are:
1. Yes, a fan CAN become a propeller, but I have yet to see one damage a radiator as a result (ussually the radiator and engine will cool as a result of the ater, and the clutch disengages).
2. I HAVE seen the clutch fail as a result of mud getting in ther, though
3. Get a BIG radiator (much bigger than you need). The mud WILL clog the radiator, and this will diminish your cooling capacity. Many fellow club members have a second radiator behind the spare tire (mounted high) with an eFan whcih they turn on if the Jeep starts to overheat... Your heater will also work in a pinch (turn it on to max; not as good as another radiator, but better than a clogged one).
4. Use a mesh in front of the grill to slow mud from entering the radiator (obviously, this also decreases wind flow, but you have a big rdiator anyway)
5. Get a 12V waterpump and some small diameter but lomg hose. I stop at any creek, pond, etc., and use the water to clean out the radiator...
As for brand, I use a Griffin 2 row aluminum radiator with a Lincoln fan (same motor as the Taurus, but larger fan, and the shrowd fits perfectly on my radiator).
Hope this helps!
Felipe