Power Steering Cooler Recommendation for an Off-road Rock Crawler

Published 06/13/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Tube-Fin Power Steering Cooler with AN Inlets - 2-1/2" Tall

(4)

$49.60

Derale Stainless Steel Hose Clamps (4 Piece)

(11)

$9.77

Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Engine - 1/2" Inner Diameter - 25' Long

(1)

$109.96

Derale 6-Pass Econo-Cool Remote Cooler Assembly w/ Fan, 1/2" Barb Inlets - Class II

(3)

$216.11

Question:

Can you estimate how much of a temperature I can expect with this cooler? It will be placed in open air on the front of an offroad rock crawler. There will not be much airflow over it though because of the speeds we typically travel at. Im looking for about a 20 degree F in temp. Thanks

asked by: Ian M

Expert Reply:

Typically, in automotive applications, the addition of a supplemental cooler will drop the fluid temperature around 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind, this is with the cooler mounted directly behind a vehicle grille, receiving good airflow.

For your situation, I would recommend a different product. The power steering cooler, # D13310, that you referenced will help, but the lack of airflow will probably not give you the results you are looking for.

Instead, I recommend looking at a cooler with a fan like the Derale 6-Pass Econo-Cool Remote Cooler, # D15830. This cooler uses a reversible tornado fan to create its own airflow to keep the fluid cool all the time. The built in brackets that will allow you to mount the cooler anywhere you want on your rock crawler. These types of coolers are more commonly found on offroad vehicles because airflow is a common issue.

A few additional parts you may need is an extra length of hose, # D15799, and stainless steel hose clamps, # D13008.