GMC5.3

iTrader: (2)

Just found out my powersteering fluid is leaking and been doing some research about installing a tranny cooler. I live in NM where it doesnt get abot 95 degrees and i dont do alot of racing. Will i have problems just deleting the cooler all together? Thanks for your help

LS6427

iTrader: (2)

Never heard of that...............LOL

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RPM WS6

iTrader: (3)

'98-99 Z28s, Formulas and Trans Ams didn't even come with the cooler originally. You can buy a radiator hose for a base model V8 LS1 (non-SS/WS6) from '98 or '99 and easily delete the cooler.

There are also threads that illustrate the installation of an aftermarket power steering cooler, if you want to go that route. IMO, if you are not racing/using the car in such a way that puts the PS system under prolonged or extreme stress/heat, then you'll be fine without it.

LS6427

iTrader: (2)

$40.00 and 15 minutes and you have an aftermarket cooler on there. I suggest you do it. Cooler fluid temps will make your pump live a long long time. Temps with this cooler, leaving the cooler, and with the scoop I cut out in the air dam, are in the mid 120*F range. Thats COOOOOOL.....

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DisasterFormula

iTrader: (1)

What years have a PS Pump Cooler, pardoning my ignorance?

Syclone538

I've read that is has to do with what size wheels came on the car. Not sure if the year matters at all.

DisasterFormula

iTrader: (1)

Actually kinda makes sense.

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

They were originally on the WS6 and SS until power steering pumps started failing. Then, GM went and installed them on all V8's.

So, removing the cooler will heat the fluid and burn up the pump faster.

http://www.gmhightechperformance.com...all/index.html


Here's a thread with a lot of good alternatives. IMO - the rail cooler is the most efficient way to go: https://ls1tech.com/forums/general-m...g-success.html

GMC5.3

iTrader: (2)

so if i go with a tranny cooler, size doesnt particually matter right

LS6427

iTrader: (2)

Did you read my post above? Cooling is ALL about size of the cooler AND airflow provided to that cooler. If you want your temps to be in the mid 120's*F during city driving on a hot *** day......do what I did with a simple, cheap, 4 row tranny fluid cooler.

Or, ask people with other set-ups to get you some temp readings on theirs, and maybe do one of their set-ups.

Look at the thread/link above that "wssix99" provided.....it has all the info and answers you'll need.

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RPM WS6

iTrader: (3)

Yes, the year matters (as to whether or not it came stock with a cooler). '98-'02 WS6/SS all had the cooler, but the early ('98-'99) base model V8s (Z28/Trans Am/Formula) did not have the cooler. I think 2000 was the first year that the cooler appeared on the base model V8 cars.

FWIW, my '98 has the original PS pump, no stock cooler, no aftermarket cooler, and the larger 17x9 SS wheels installed. It's been that way since just about forever, and the pump is quiet and fine. Granted, it's low mileage, doesn't get raced, and I live in a climate that's much cooler than the southern guys. I'm sure this is a much bigger concern for those of you living in hot areas and/or that push the steering system hard while racing.

Syclone538

My 2000 Z28 does not have it. I'm the third owner and know the second owner, and the car is still bone stock, so I doubt the original owner removed it, but it's possible. Could be a mid year change too I guess.

I'm definitely planning on adding something before any autocross.

DisasterFormula

iTrader: (1)

So is a PS Pump Cooler something I should invest in for a M6 LT1?

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

Not sure if its an issue for 3rd gen.

DisasterFormula

iTrader: (1)

It isn't a 3rd gen...

It's a 95 Firebird Formula w/ the GM LT1 V8 and a T56 transmission...

GiggleJuiced_SS

iTrader: (31)

i was thinkin of deleting mine all together but ill just get a cooler, no big deal. when my car gets up to operating temp, my ps is loud as sh*t and embarrassing when ppl r around.

LS6427

iTrader: (2)

How long has it been making that noise? Usually they don't last too much longer after they start making noise. But some do......

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speed_demon24

iTrader: (6)

The stock cooler is worthless, and you definitely don't need a cooler for a street or drag car.

Schnell

Got a 99 z with 145k. I'm original owner. No cooler no problems.... and I live in Tampa.

hcb1700

iTrader: (9)

I actually just finished installing an aftermarket cooler for my '00 SS and was a very simple install. I also had to flush the system because of coolant contamination, but that too was simple.

By the way, Thank you LS6427 for the help on that. Followed his instructions and it all went well. I still have to make a cut on the bottom for the cooler to get more air, but will do that later.