oil cooler leak on an SC?

HI,
I've got an oil leak on my '78 SC. Engine has 123,000. Recently took it to my shop and
they said its the actual oil cooler thats bad and needs to be replaced. My understanding is that this is extremely rare for the engine's oil cooler to go out, and more likely its oil cooler seals. Any thoughts on this? I'd like to get a another shop's opinion, any recommendations for mechanics in Orange County (preferably north)?
Thanks much,
Bill

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I suppose anything is possible, but as far as I know, the oil cooler itself springing a leak is, at best, rare. I've never personally heard of it happening, but I would guess that it has happened.

Are you sure it is not something very simple, like the oil pressure switch? These leak ALL THE TIME. The switch is located on top of the engine, kind of behind the CIS plate. If it starts leaking, oil drips down around the oil cooler, and to the ground. It if VERY easy to mistake this for an oil cooler related leak.

Contrary to what anyone may tell you, the switch is very easy to replace. You don't need to drop the engine down (fully or partially). You just need to take off the air cleaner top (just undo the straps and take the top part off), and take off the rubber CIS boot. Then, using a small mirror and a flashlight, you can locate and see the switch. You can also feel behind there for oil. To change the switch, you need to unscrew it using a deep socket, your mirror and flashlight, and some "feel." But, it can be done. Once you have done it once, it is VERY simple. I can change it out in about 15 minutes, total. I am always surprised when shops invariably charge for hours of time to do this job.

Check the switch! I'd guess that 80% of the time when oil is dripping from the oil cooler area, it is actually the switch. I have had 2 switches spring leaks in my 911 in the last few years alone. My 914, which uses the same or similar switch, also has started leaking from the switch several times in the last few years.

BTW, a very good shop in OC is Strasse Automotive in Costa Mesa, (949) 645-1928. They have been there for almost 30 years now.
Brian

Could also be the oil thermostat which is right near the oil pressure switch. It uses o-rings which are inside the block to seal. I had to do ours about 1 1/2 years ago. If you do this, make sure the area is spotlessly clean so no dirt will get into the oil system and lube the o-rings with a little oil/grease to allow them to enter the block without pinching..