I've got an oil leak that's coming from in between the oil cooler unit and the block. I've replaced the gasket and visually everything appears fine, except that it leaks oil. I don't understand why it's leaking. I'm considering removing the cooler unit and bypassing it, but I'm concerned that it will just leak between the block and oil filter if I remove the cooler. I've looked at the service manual and it doesn't appear like I'm missing any parts or gaskets. Why would this thing leak?

 

Gone to Syn. oil? Worse case you could remove the oil cooler all together. though I am sure I will get a tongue lashing for saying that but its an option.

 

Nope, but tongue lashing or not I'm thinking of just removing the thing altogether. Just worried that it really won't fix the problem and that it will just leak out from between the block and the filter.

 

I dont see where there would be a place for it to leak between the block and the filter honestly. So long as your oil filter gasket is in place, it doesnt seem possible, as that ends up all around any part that could leak. The oil filter adapter is different though if you ditch the cooler, but there's no gasket for it, goes on dry. I ditched mine, was much a hassle. Got the PITA coolant lines out of the way, made for much more room on that side of the motor. No leaks.

 

I suggest you remove the oil cooler; it's a poor design that can lead to oil starvation. Oil is forced through a small screen in the cooler; if that screen were to get plugged up with debris, you would oil starve the engine.