Oil Cooler Removal / Upper Fitting Inspection

[karmavore]

My left oil cooler seem to be leaking. It also seems like the leak is coming from the upper line. Unfortunately, it looks like you need to take off the front bumper to get at the upper fitting. Is this so? And if so, how is that done?

Any help is very much appreciated!

Luke.

[jk1]

Luke,

It's been quite a while since I had that area apart but IIRC you should be able to pull the undertrays, then the cooler duct and then pull the cooler loose and move it enough to get to the fitting in question. I'm pretty sure you don't have to pull the bumper.

Only problem is most people have a problem getting the steel fitting loose from the aluminum cooler due to corrosion and end up having to replace the cooler.

Hope this helps.

Jim

[dvr]

Luke ,
I would like to confirm what Jim said.
You don't have to remove the bumper, just remove the protection plate. You will have access to the oil cooler from underneath. You can even leave the oil cooler in place if the leak is coming from the fitting. you must use a wrench on each component either to loosen or tighten. the most likely cause could be from the union that screws into the oil cooler, I had a similar problem a few days ago and that's were I found the leak. Be careful not to damage the union as the thread is very short. You might need to replace the washer (it incorporates a rubber seal)and use some kind of thread sealing (f.e. Permatex)and I think your problem will be solved.
Denis

[karmavore]

Thanks fellas,

I got the under tray and duct removed (including the horns) and have complete access to the cooler ...except the upper fitting.

Maybe I need to take another look. Thanks guys!

Luke.