Front Radiator Engine Oil Cooler "Snake Type"
Restore efficient oil temperature control to your classic
air-cooled Porsche with this OE Match Front Radiator Engine Oil Cooler. Better known as the Snake Type Oil Cooler
or Trombone Oil Cooler, this OE-quality replacement is designed to match
the original equipment fitted to Porsche 911 models.
Fits:
- Porsche 911 1974-1977 2.7L / 1976-77 3.0 Carrera
-
Porsche 911 1978-1983 3.0L / SC
-
Porsche 911 1975-1977 3.0L Turbo (930)
-
Porsche 911 1978-1989 3.3L Turbo (930)
Positioned within the front right-hand wheel arch, the
Trombone Oil Cooler forms an integral part of Porsche's legendary dry sump
lubrication system. Its distinctive looped tube design increases the surface
area exposed to airflow, allowing engine oil to dissipate heat before returning
to the oil tank. Although simple in construction compared to later finned
radiator-style coolers, the Trombone Oil Cooler proved to be an effective and
reliable solution for controlling engine oil temperatures in early impact
bumper 911s and first-generation 930 turbos.
Manufactured to OE Match specifications, this replacement
offers factory-correct fitment, dependable performance and excellent
durability, making it the ideal choice for restorations, preventative
maintenance and originality-focused repairs.
What Does the Snake Type (Trombone) Oil Cooler Do?
Unlike water-cooled engines, air-cooled Porsche engines rely
heavily on engine oil to remove heat as well as lubricate internal components.
The front-mounted Trombone Oil Cooler helps to:
- Reduce
engine oil temperatures.
- Improve
heat dissipation during sustained driving.
- Maintain
stable oil viscosity.
- Protect
pistons, bearings and internal engine components.
- Improve
engine reliability during hot weather and spirited driving.
- Extend
engine life by maintaining consistent operating temperatures.
By cooling the oil before it returns to the engine, the
Trombone Oil Cooler plays a vital role in preserving the health of your classic
flat-six engine.
Why Do Trombone Oil Coolers Need Replacing?
After decades of service, the original oil cooler may suffer
from:
- External
corrosion caused by moisture and road salt.
- Stone
damage from debris entering the wheel arch.
- Impact
damage.
- Internal
contamination.
- Fatigue
cracks or pinhole leaks.
- Damage
caused during previous repairs.
- Reduced
cooling efficiency due to age.
Even a minor oil leak can lead to falling oil pressure and
increased engine temperatures, making timely replacement essential.
Symptoms of a Failing Oil Cooler
Common warning signs include:
- Engine
oil leaks around the front wheel arch.
- Oil
residue on the cooling loop.
- Rising
engine oil temperatures.
- Burning
oil smell after driving.
- Visible
corrosion or physical damage.
- Reduced
cooling performance.
- Falling
oil level without obvious engine leaks.
Any evidence of oil leakage should be investigated
immediately to prevent costly engine damage.
When Should the Oil Cooler Be Replaced?
Replacement is recommended when:
- Oil
leaks develop.
- The
cooling loop becomes corroded or damaged.
- Accident
damage has occurred.
- Restoring
a classic Porsche to factory condition.
- Replacing
front oil pipes or oil lines.
- Carrying
out a complete engine rebuild or lubrication system overhaul.
Replacing ageing oil cooling components helps maintain
optimum lubrication and protects your engine for years to come.
Why Choose an OE Match Oil Cooler?
Our OE Match Snake Type Oil Cooler has been manufactured to
faithfully reproduce the original Porsche component.
Benefits include:
- Authentic
Snake Type (Trombone) configuration.
- OE-quality
construction and fitment.
- Precision-formed
cooling loop.
- Excellent
oil flow characteristics.
- Corrosion-resistant
finish.
- Straightforward
installation using factory mounting points.
- Perfect
for restoration and maintenance projects.
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