Okay, we can all agree that the the engine oil filter and oil cooler lines on our trucks are a pain in the behind. They are really leak-prone and replacements are not cheap. If you have the model of truck with oil lines from the engine to the oil filter and from the oil filter to the radiator, then you have twice the possibility of leaks.

So, my first idea is to eliminate the oil lines from the filter to the radiator by installing an oil filter head that only has engine oil in and out ports.

My other idea is to grind off the aluminum crimps and replace the brittle 17 year old rubber hose with new oil cooler hose and use hose clamps to secure them to the aluminum oil lines. What does everyone think? Before you all flame the heck out of me, consider the following:

1. Aftermarket engine oil coolers and remote oil filter kits all use hose clamps.

2. Power steering return lines use hose clamps.

3. Aftermarket transmission oil cooler lines use hose clamps.

So has anyone done this? If so give me and the rest of us low-budget car fixers a heads up.

 

i would love to see some input on this as i have 2 first gens that need oil lines done one is leaking bad and the other is not leaking more then a smidge but id like to fix it one time and be good

 

Serrasalmus,

Whats up, fellow Colorado member? I'm going to start on the second idea tomorrow. I have an extra set of junkyard oil lines. I'm going to grind off the aluminum crimps and study the aluminum tubes. I'm pretty sure it will work, but since it will have hose clamps on it when I actually put it on the truck, it will need to be inspected and tightrned periodically. I'll post updates.

 

the idea that im playing with is 1/2" hydraulic hose, 1/2" hydraulic compression fitting, 1/2" resuable hydraulic hose fitting to thread into the compression fitting, and p clamps to keep it all neat and tidy. mind you this isnt cheap by anymeans but for me it is because i can get everything from work. if and when the line leaks again you can just replace the hose and resue everything else, which is mint!!! hope this helps you out.

 

I had thought about the hydraulic compression fittings as well. Unfortunately I don't work for a construction company anymore. They had everything that I would need to do exactly what you are talking about, war00. Man, I miss that job. The pay was so much sweeter too. Anyway, I'll keep updating progress on my el-cheapo oil line fix

 

off subject, how close to the high park fire are you