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Building Integrity
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Date:  9-17-2015
Number of Hours:  2.00
Manual Reference:  Section 2
Brief Description:  Oil cooler Install and a bad day

I decided, now that final primer was on the bird, I could install this new Oil cooler and plenum business. I began by spreading a thin layer of Red RTV under the cooler attach tabs for a nice airtight seal. I Then placed the cooler in position, and was easily able to reach all 6 bolts using a socket wrench. Yes! After tightening them all down, I injected a bead of RTV along the sides and anywhere else there was a visible void. Accessing the left side wasn't fun due to the fuel line fitting, but it worked out with some effort.
Now here is when crap happened. I bought aluminum fittings for my oil cooler even though I knew it was better to buy the SS ones. But at 1/3rd the cost and seeing a lot of other installs, I took a chance. Well, the first fitting went in great. 2 turns past finger tight and done. The second one however got VERY difficult to turn, too early on. At the point where I was using excessive effort I decided to abort and back out the fitting. When I finally got it out I noticed that the threads were completely stripped. DANG!!! The cooler threads weren't as bad, thank God, but I can't afford to have this happen again. The next fitting will be brand new and aluminum as well, but at the FIRST sign of problems, I'll remove both fittings and install 2 SS instead. I'd hate to ruin the cooler to the point where I have to remove it and send it back for repair. Things kind of small problems cause major setbacks and are, by definition, the things that burden every builder.
I was hoping to install the oil lines and fill her with fresh oil, but it will have to wait till next week....ugh.
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oil cooler and plenum installed

oil cooler and plenum installed

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RTV filling the gaps

RTV filling the gaps

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1 ruined Oil Fitting...:(

1 ruined Oil Fitting...:(

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