Oil coolers can be cleaned. But, it is a PITA
and time consuming. I have a parts washer that I have just for coolers, oil or trans. I connect the cooler in line with the fluid pump, it then circulates the solvent throughout the cooler, and it is filtered before going back into the pump and cooler. I also use my pressure washer with soap to finish the cleaning, then rinse without the soap. I have seen people just use a pressure washer to flush the coolers also, and some have gone to the car wash to use their spray wand with the engine cleaner then the hot soap and hot rinse. After flushing, which ever way you go, the cooler needs to be blown out with compressed air to help get moisture out, and to help dry. Then cap off the lines so nothing gets inside till you are in the process of re-installing them. The rest of the oil system is another PITA to clean!
The worst engine grenade I had
, was back in the 70's when I was still driving NHRA TF or Double A, when an entire intake and blower set-up, on one of my MOPAR Elephant Motors, launched into orbit
. The engine component tie-down systems were not like the type used today. Back then, when one blew like this, everyone ran like hell to GTF out the way!
Talk about a bad pre-ignition detonation problem!!
Good luck with your progress!! Tony.
