Engine Oil Cooler Recommendation for a 2001 Dodge Ram with 360 Cubic Inch Motor

Question:

I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500, 360 engine 4x4 auto trans with 57,xxx on the clock. I dontt know what the normal oil temp susposed to run, but mine goes up towards 200 degs. winter or summer. I know heat is a factor for engine longivity and wear. If this kit will reduce the temp at least 20 degs,. I would feel better, to see around 160-180 I do run full syn. Mobile one So would this kit be a good choise for my application.

asked by: Larry M

Expert Reply:

The engine oil temperature should only be a concern if you notice that the gauge, if you have a gauge, is above the normal operating temperature. It can also be a concern when towing or carrying things in the bed of the truck. Adding an engine oil cooler will lower the temperature by as much as 50 degrees depending on where the core is mounted.

Engine oil temperature should be between 180 and 200 degrees for the engine to function the best so if your engine oil routinely goes above that then a cooler would be a good idea. What I recommend is a kit with a thermostatic sandwich adapter # D15502. This will only allow oil to flow through the cooler once it is hotter than 180 degrees.

If you wanted a spin-on adapter type like # D15551, it is not thermostatic so oil would flow through the cooler all the time unless you added Derale Fluid Control Thermostat, # D25792. I have included a link to our engine oil cooler FAQ article for you.

expert reply by: Michael H