Oil cooling radiator for under $200?

[boyo]

I was thinking about adding an oil cooler to my '72 911T, and all the options I've seen in the tech section here on Pelican parts run in the $800+ range. Then I was talking with my cousin about adding an engine oil cooler, and he said - oh, you mean like a transmission oil cooler?

You know, the small cooling radiators for automatic transmissions that cost about $100-$200? They come in all shapes and sizes, some even have dual circuits for two kinds of fluids. (i.e. engine and transmission)

Would that work? Anybody used one of these to cool engine oil, instead of something made specifically to rob your wallet, er, I mean made specifically for a Porsche?

Whatcha think? I searched the archives and it doesn't seem to have come up before.

-Boyo

[RarlyL8]

That was the first thought I had when noting the P-tax for a seemingly simple item.

Looks to me like the only requirement would be proper ID. Most tranny coolers aren't big enough. Some here on the board are using Mazda RX7 coolers, don't know the year(s) used or any related problems found.
I too am planning a cooler update, but there ain't no way I'll spend $800 for something like that. Might have the local radiator shop make one for me. He'd make half a dozen for that price.

[Nickshu]

I think quite a few of the 914 guys run Mazda RX7 coolers...maybe try posting on their board about the size of the coolers, fittings, etc.

Good Luck.
Nick.

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_ _ __ _ _
Nick Shumaker
1982 911SC Coupe
nickshu@yahoo.com
PCA -- Rocky Mtn. Region

[Clark Griswald]

As stated the problem with those cheap coolers is the tubing diameter and consequently they can't flow enough oil. You want AN12 (about 3/4 inch) connections or better.

The other thing you'll find is that the cooler is but a slice of the price. You also need to plumb it, and that will cost $100 - $500 depending on what you do. And you need a thermostat $100+.

You can find suitable coolers in the $200-$300 range. But when you add the other required items, you are at least $500.

[speeder]

I paid $255.00 for a new factory 930(or 911 carrera) front fender oil cooler in L.A. Can't say where out of respect for Pelican, but see if they will match it.

[campbellcj]

I have been exploring oil cooler options for my 914 lately. There are LOTS of possibilities out there, of every size shape and price. Here are a few links:

http://www.batinc.net (Mocal)
http://www.fluidyne.com (Fluidyne)
http://www.anplumbing.com (Earls)
http://www.amstreetrod.com (Earls)
http://www.racerpartswholesale.com (Misc)

If you don't mind a bit of homework and fabrication, I think you can save a significant amount of money versus buying one of those "pre-configured" kits.

Not affiliated with or recommending any of the above in particular, just passing along the info...YMMV of course.




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Chris C.
73 914 2.0
70 911E Targa
campbell.chris@gte.net

[cab83_750]

Check out my old post (search the database). I have added a Carrera oil cooler really cheaply about 2-3 months ago.

[boyo]

I thought just the Carrera radiator went for about $400 used, right? Still pricey...

Nope, don't mind a bit of DIY as long as it ends up being done right. Good links to alternative coolers - thanks!

-Boyo