Causes of Leaks When Installing an Engine Oil Cooler

Published 02/23/2018

Question:

Im considering purchasing the D15502 Engine Oil Cooler for a 2013 Ford Explorer. In reading reviews, seems like a lot of users experience leaking problems. Is this due to getting incorrect parts, incorrect install, or other reasons I can try and not repeat.

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

The number one cause of leaking in regards to the installation of an oil cooler is incorrect installation. The Derale Tube-Fin Engine Oil Cooler Kit part # D15502 is an excellent choice for your 2013 Ford Explorer. The kit comes with 5 different oil filter thread adapters. For your Explorer you will want to use the 3/4"-16 adapter with the yellow paint marking if you have the 2.0L I4 engine or the 22x1.5" adapter with the green paint marking if you have the 3.5L V6 engine.

When installing the oil filter thread adapter you will want to torque the fitting to 20 ft lbs. Then for the barbed hose fittings you will first want to apply a thin layer of thread tape or silicone sealant to the threads then torque down accordingly. The main cause of the leaks is at the barbed hose fittings which is due to the lack of a sealant. Please note that if you are using thread tape make sure to the wrap the threads in the same direction you spin the fitting.

Using the above method should prevent any leaks from forming in the system.

expert reply by: Conner L