oil cooler install advice needed

[dpariso]

It's time for my winter project (only 3 degrees outside tomorrow...burrr!). I'm installing an oil cooler (from Breeze) and was hoping to get some advice. I don't plan on removing any panels. All work will be done on the car.
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suggestions on easy way to punch?/drill? 1 1/4 holes in the bottom plate and side plates?
best way to route hoses to the engine bay?
getting the air out of the lines and cooler? is it needed?

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[Bob Cowan]

The best way to cut the holes is with a hole punch. Do a web search on "Hole Punch", "Chassis punch", and "knockout punch".

Also, consider a dimple or bead die after punching the hole. It looks good (IMO), and adds some rigidity.

For hose routing, that's up to you. Some people like both hoses going out one side. And some people like the left and right look.

Difficult to purge the lines with a mod motor. Easy to fill the cooler after it's in place. But not sure how you would fill the lines , since the cooler and the ports are at about the same height.

If you're using a thermostat - as you should - then it's a non-issue. About 90% of the oil will bypass the cooler when it's cold. As the thermostat opens, it will gradually purge the lines without significant pressure loss.

[dpariso]

Bob, thanks for the info! I did not know a "Chassis Punch" existed. Its exactly what I will get.
Yep, I'm using a thermostat
IS there any thread paste or tape I should use on the connections?

[Bob Cowan]

Pipe threads should get a little bit of Teflon paste. AN fittings get a smidgen of anti-seize.

[cob427sc]

I have used a hole saw on a right angle drill to open the holes. Afterward I installed rubber grommets to prevent chafing even though I used braided hoses. If not using a thermostst, you can bleed the cooler/lines by filling the lines with oil just prior to connecting to the engine. Fill one hose until oil runs out the other, which should eliminate the majority of the air.

[dpariso]

anyone have pic's they can share of routing the hose from the front to the engine?

[Ducky2009]

Do you know anyone in the HVAC business? Some have a hydraulic knockout punches. I have a few wrench type. I start by drilling a 3/8" hole and pierce a 3/4" hole. The larger once have a 3/4" bolt and go up to several inches in size.

[Avalanche325]

A name brand of punches is Greenlee. If you search for that, you will also get the cheaper versions that are fine for AL and considering that you are not going to be making a living with them.

[rich grsc]

Harbor Freight, a fraction of the cost of a Greenlee punch.


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