Can You Add an External Oil Cooler to a Subaru BRZ to Prevent Overheating During Extended Track Use?

As car enthusiasts, we often find ourselves pushing our vehicles to the limit, especially when we’re out on the track. One car that’s received a lot of attention in this regard is the Subaru BRZ. However, a common issue that many Subaru owners face during extended track use is the overheating of the engine. A potential solution is the addition of an external oil cooler. But is it feasible? And how does it work? This article is dedicated to providing a comprehensive reply to these questions.

The Problem: Overheating During Extended Track Use

Before diving into the solution, it’s crucial to understand the issue at hand. Overheating during extended track use is a problem that plagues many Subaru BRZ owners. It’s not a fault of the car; it’s simply a consequence of pushing the car to its limits for extended periods.

Also to read : Can Upgraded Valve Springs Increase the RPM Limit and Performance of a Toyota Celica GT?

In the same genre : How to Choose the Right Camshaft Profile for a Chevrolet Corvette C7 for Maximum Torque?

When you’re driving your Subaru BRZ on the track, the engine works harder than it does during a normal drive. This generates additional heat. If this heat isn’t adequately dissipated, it can cause the engine oil to overheat, which can eventually lead to engine damage.

Also to read : How to Choose the Right Camshaft Profile for a Chevrolet Corvette C7 for Maximum Torque?

An overheated engine not only impairs performance but could also result in costly repairs. So, it’s essential to look into ways to prevent this from happening. That’s where the idea of adding an external oil cooler comes in.

Topic to read : Can Upgraded Valve Springs Increase the RPM Limit and Performance of a Toyota Celica GT?

The Solution: External Oil Cooler

An external oil cooler functions as a radiator for your engine oil. It’s a device that works by circulating the oil outside the engine, where it can dissipate heat before being routed back. This increases the oil’s capacity to absorb heat from the engine, thereby preventing overheating.

For Subaru BRZ owners who regularly use their car on the track, an external oil cooler could be an invaluable addition. It not only enhances the car’s performance by maintaining optimal engine temperature but also extends the life of the engine by preventing overheating.

However, keep in mind that installing an oil cooler isn’t a simple plug-and-play operation. The location of the cooler is key. It should be installed where it will receive maximum air flow for optimal cooling. Care should also be taken to ensure the oil pressure isn’t affected by the installation.

Benefits of Using an Oil Cooler

Adding an oil cooler to your Subaru BRZ will yield a few key benefits. First, it will help maintain optimal operating temperature, which will improve your car’s performance on the track. An oil cooler can help keep the engine cool even during high-intensity track use, ensuring your car performs as expected.

Moreover, the oil cooler prolongs the life of your engine oil, thus saving you money in the long run. Overheating can break down the oil, reducing its effectiveness. By maintaining a cooler oil temperature, you’re ensuring the oil retains its lubricating properties for a longer period.

Finally, an oil cooler can also help extend the life of the engine itself. Overheating can cause engine components to warp or crack, leading to hefty repair bills. By preventing overheating, an oil cooler protects these components from damage, saving you potential repair or replacement costs.

Installation Process and Considerations

Despite the benefits, installing an oil cooler requires careful consideration. Firstly, the cooler must be installed in a location where it can receive ample air flow. Ideally, it should be near the front of the car, close to the radiator. This ensures the oil is adequately cooled before returning to the engine.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the potential impact on oil pressure. Adding an oil cooler means increasing the distance the oil has to travel. This could potentially decrease oil pressure, which can harm the engine. Therefore, you might need to invest in a high-pressure oil pump to maintain adequate pressure.

Professional installation is recommended. While you might be tempted to install the cooler yourself, remember that an incorrectly installed oil cooler can cause more harm than good. Therefore, it’s best to leave the installation to professionals who have the knowledge and skills to do it right.

Finally, remember to conduct regular maintenance checks once the oil cooler is installed. Just like any other part of your car, the oil cooler needs to be properly maintained to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.

While the addition of an external oil cooler to your Subaru BRZ involves some cost and effort, the benefits of improved performance and engine longevity make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those who regularly push their BRZ to the limits on the track. So, if you’re a Subaru BRZ owner who loves to spend time on the track, consider investing in an oil cooler. It’s a decision your car—and your wallet—will thank you for in the long run.

Understanding Different Types of Oil Coolers

The term "oil cooler" might seem straightforward, but it’s worth mentioning that there are different types of oil coolers, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. The two primary types are air-cooled and water-cooled oil coolers.

Air-cooled oil coolers are the most common type. They use air as a medium to dissipate heat from the oil. This is the type of oil cooler we’ve been discussing throughout this article. It’s a simple and effective solution, especially for high-performance applications like track use. However, they need to be properly mounted in a location with ample airflow for optimal efficiency, which might be challenging in some vehicles.

On the other hand, water-cooled oil coolers use the engine’s coolant to regulate the oil temperature. These are often integrated into the radiator or the oil filter housing. While they are more compact and easier to install compared to air-cooled oil coolers, they are not as efficient at cooling the oil, especially during heavy-duty applications like extended track use.

Therefore, for a Subaru BRZ that’s often pushed to its limits, an air-cooled oil cooler might be the best choice. Still, it’s crucial to remember that every oil cooler, regardless of type, needs to be correctly installed and maintained to ensure its effectiveness and longevity.

Conclusion: Should You Install an Oil Cooler on Your Subaru BRZ?

If you’re a Subaru BRZ owner who likes thrill rides on the track and enjoys pushing your vehicle to the limit, investing in an oil cooler can be a wise decision. It can make a significant difference in your car’s performance, delivering consistent power even under strenuous conditions by preventing engine oil overheating.

However, keep in mind that the addition of an oil cooler to your Subaru BRZ is not a trivial task. It requires careful consideration, professional installation, and regular maintenance. An oil cooler is not a silver bullet that can eliminate all potential engine problems, but it’s an effective tool for reducing the risk of overheating and extending the life of your engine.

In conclusion, while the Subaru BRZ is a remarkable vehicle right off the factory floor, an oil cooler can take its performance and durability to the next level. If you’re passionate about track racing and want to get the most out of your Subaru BRZ, an oil cooler is certainly a worthwhile investment. Remember, though, a well-maintained car is a reliable car, and even with the addition of an oil cooler, regular oil changes and maintenance checks are a must. An oil cooler is just one piece of the puzzle; a holistic approach to vehicle care will ensure your BRZ stays in top shape for those exhilarating track days.