PS Cooler - bypass, replace or relocate?

[Dukietown]

Working on getting the bronco up and running this weekend. More info here on that: viewtopic.php?f=16&t=9071

As you can see in the image, the PO had installed a PS cooler over the driver-side fresh air duct. I'm not sure how effective that placement is, or if the cooler is needed. I do know that it leaks. When it does, it leaks down the fresh air duct into the cab. I'm looking for suggestions on what to do here. It sounds like I have the F100 PS conversion based on comments in the other thread. And I'm running 33's. Is it a good idea to run a remote cooler like this with tires this size? Any suggestions for a replacement and ideas on where to relocate it so it's not over that duct?


Also, how hard is it to reinstall that transmission position sensor/switch that the PO zip-tied to the PS lines? The column shift was converted to a floor-shift, is it not doable with that setup? It'd be nice to have my reverse lights working...

[Justin]

That's a big cooler for that application, and not the spot I'd put it in. I'd replace and relocate. I've got a largeish cooler you can have that'd work great mounted to the front of a radiator.

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[Dukietown]

That's a big cooler for that application, and not the spot I'd put it in. I'd replace and relocate. I've got a largeish cooler you can have that'd work great mounted to the front of a radiator.

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That would be much appreciated! Currently there is a trans-cooler mounted to the front of the radiator. The trans line also goes into the radiator. So it's using both the radiator as well as the external cooler.

Would it be too much to put both a trans cooler and a ps cooler in front of the radiator?

[Justin]

Probably not, but I've also not owned a bronco with an auto.

[cravenbronco]

Mine is located behind the grill but would like to move it to under the front bumper somewhere. It's on my to-do list along with many other things.

[pgilbeau]

I would replace that and move it, I doubt that it gets much air in that location. I run a cooler for my P/S and its located in front of my radiator. You might want to keep future expansion in mind since there is the potential for running more systems off the P/S. The biggest reason I run a larger cooler is because along with the P/S I am running a PSC external reservoir and hydro-boost.

[Dukietown]

I would replace that and move it, I doubt that it gets much air in that location. I run a cooler for my P/S and its located in front of my radiator. You might want to keep future expansion in mind since there is the potential for running more systems off the P/S. The biggest reason I run a larger cooler is because along with the P/S I am running a PSC external reservoir and hydro-boost.

That was my thought as well about not getting much air there.

Here's a shot of what it's looking like in front of the radiator currently:

IMG_3363.JPG

I think there's enough room to stack the 2 coolers up, would need some help on fabricating a bracket for them. Would there be issues of restricting airflow to the radiator with both in place?

[Gunnibronco]

If you ever look at a modern diesel truck, they stack p/s coolers, trans coolers, a/c condensers, & an intercooler all in front of the radiator. I wouldn't worry about it. I did read to leave 1" space between.

If you are concerned at all, I'd invest in an air dam like WH sells. Our Broncos allow A LOT of air to pass around the radiator. Modern cars have baffles & seals to funnel the air through the radiator, instead of allowing it to pass around it. The WH dam is a good starting point.

http://www.wildhorses4x4.com/product/SS ... _Radiators

Of course make sure you are running a fan shroud, and a good fan blade(NOT a flexible fan blade). Those seem to be common points of neglect, but make the biggest difference when someone has a cooling issue.

[pgilbeau]

Another option would be to go side by side on the front of the radiator. You can't see it very well in the picture but my P/S cooler is behind the R and D on the grille, its on a Ron Davis radiator. I have seen this same cooler done side by side, one for the trans and one for P/S. On another note don't let my picture fool you, I have no core support.

[landshark]

Like Justin mentioned you don't need a big cooler so I think a small one in front of the radiator will be more than enough. Iam running a stock looking ps cooler on my fender and running hydroboost and Saginaw turning 35's for the last few years with no problems.

[Dirtheadz]

bigger the better in my opinion. Essentially your power steering system is a down scaled hydraulic system. More volume = less heat. Slow speed wheeling, getting airflow is a chore & heat is the enemy. My last bronco (hydro boost & 37's) I ran the biggest trans cooler for my power steering I could get locally. But heck what do I know, I don't even own a Bronco anymore.

[Jesus_man]

There are many options for a PS cooler. PSC makes an extruded aluminum one that might fit your application better?? But there is a configuration out there that would work fine for you, but I wouldn't eliminate it.

[sykanr0ng]

Tom Lee (Lee Power Steering) says that PS fluid should not go over 180°F
Chuck (BC Broncos) says a GM engineer told him 178°F

I don't think the cooler is too big.
I do think it is a really poor place to put it.

In front of the radiator or somewhere on the front of the Bronco, as long as it gets air flow and isn't going to get hit.

[pgilbeau]

bigger the better in my opinion. Essentially your power steering system is a down scaled hydraulic system. More volume = less heat. Slow speed wheeling, getting airflow is a chore & heat is the enemy. My last bronco (hydro boost & 37's) I ran the biggest trans cooler for my power steering I could get locally. But heck what do I know, I don't even own a Bronco anymore.

Agreed, I would rather be on the safe side and keep it cool.

[ZOSO]

Im running an explorer trans cooler as a power steering cooler.