Defender TD5 R380 Gearbox Oil Cooler pipe (loop)

[Ontdekker]

Hi there,

My gearbox mechanic recommended that I remove this pipe (copper oil cooler loop pipe, and blank off this on the gearbox.) According to him, this cooling pipe is not effective (runs next to the hot engine etc.) and that he has had cases where this pipe starts leaking and you loose gearbox oil without realising it. Also the brackets have a tendency of breaking off and this pipe starts flapping round (happened to me, that is why I asked him about this).

Your views? Do you think this cooling option is effective? Apparently only Defender TD5's shipped to the "rest of the world" have this fitted. (UK and Europe not)

Thanks.

[Ian Ashcroft]

Hi I would agree with your mech but whatever you do don't just blank off the thermostat/oil bypass or you will starve the box oil feed, either replace it with a genuine bypass or better still add a decent cooler. More info here .

Ashcroft Transmissions (http://www.ashcroft-transmissions.co.uk/part_118.html)

Regards Ian Ashcroft

[Blknight.aus]

it does its job... leave it alone and keep an eye on it and the fittings as part of the scheduled maintenance like you're supposed to.

[greenextreme]

Keep an eye on the pipe in around the rear lower engine area. Mine had been pushed up onto the engine block and worn a deep indentation into the pipe, possibly only a few days off leaking oil. I patched the dent [out bush] with liquid metal, straightened the pipe, and cable tied a piece of cork to stop any future movement towards the engine block. cheers,