steering cooler ?'s

[-=Alien=-]

After reading up about it, I've decided to install a steering cooler on my TJ. Does anyone have part numbers, a parts list, write up, advice, or anything else that can help with this project. I'd like to head into it with as much knowledge as possible. TIA.

[Stu Olson]

The install is quite simple....you simply put the cooler in the low pressure return line of your power steering system. That would be the 11/32" hose (3/8" works fine) that goes from your steering gear box back to the power steering pump reservoir.

I recently swapped out my pump for a beefier one but didn't have time to install the cooler that I picked up. I bought a small Hayden auto tranny cooler at the local auto parts store....about $20 something (tube and fin type). The cooler came with several feet of 3/8" return line hose. You use hose clamps to keep things in place.

The only thing you get to be creative with is the mounting location. Your call on where to put it.

[-=Alien=-]

Thanks Stu! I'll try to get it going this weekend.

[blupupher]

Stu, (or others) so do you just cut the low pressure line and plumb the cooler in with it? No special fittings needed?

[blkTJ]

In my experience, you will need to slit the old line to remove it.(low pressure side)

Decide where the cooler will be located and pick up enough tranny cooler line at you local auto parts store to cover the run. Secure to existing barb fittings with hose clamps.

Then refill and bleed system.

That's about it.

[Robert J. Yates]

Originally posted by blkTJ
That's about it.

......only if you decide to forego the reinstallation of the well nuts

[blkTJ]

Originally posted by Robert J. Yates
......only if you decide to forego the reinstallation of the well nuts

that all depends on the installation location and if your Jeep is equiped with ac.

by the way... OSH has replacements for those rubber things if ya need 'em.

[Robert J. Yates]

I live out east with the 'po folks - we don't have any OSH's there. Lots of Autozones, Pepboys and Kragins selling cheap remanufactured parts for old Chebys though

[blupupher]

Yea, I knew about the well nuts, that part of the install is just the same as a tranny cooler. I guess all the steps are the same, just a different hose to splice into.

[-=Alien=-]

I must not understand this issue with the well nuts. I just installed my steering cooler this morning with no issues. I had to slice the old line, then ran the new line from the box to the cooler and to the pump. In fact, the cooler I bought fit through the grill slots so I didn't need to move the radiator or anyting.

[Paradiddle]

I've read of a trick to fitting the round aluminum coolers through the drivers side headlight (after you remove it of course).

With the Currie hoop bumper I run that is not an option for me though.

Jeff