I'm finishing up my 617a swap in my 1980 300GD and have come to the oil cooler part. The oil cooler from my 617 engine leaks - apparently from the core but it's covered in oil so I'm not positive that is the source. The oil cooler from the 617a (1983 300SD) has no mounting ears and the lower port stripped while removing the hose.

I could have new hoses made with the Gates ends that others have used (see: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=241922&highlig=... ) and then have the 300GD oil cooler fixed. My estimate to fix the cooler is around $200 locally based on the cost to have my radiator cleaned out and tested.

I could also get an aftermarket oil cooler (under $100) and have hoses made with fittings that thread onto the new cooler and the filter housing. I can make a bracket for the aftermarket cooler behind the grille.

Hose cost will probably be the same for either one.

Given that I could get a cooler with AN fittings and there are lots of options for things like oil temperature sender ports I'm leaning toward going with the aftermarket one.

Thoughts?

-Tad

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1995 G320
2003 C230 Kompressor Coupe
2005 ML500
2007 ML350