Radiator Engine oil cooler front "Snake Type". Porsche 911 1974-79 / 930 1975-77  ❭  91120705001

Front Radiator Engine Oil Cooler "Snake Type" 

Restore efficient oil temperature control to your classic air-cooled Porsche with this OE Match Front Radiator Engine Oil Cooler. Better known as the Snake Type Oil Cooler or Trombone Oil Cooler, this OE-quality replacement is designed to match the original equipment fitted to Porsche 911 models.

Fits:

• Porsche 911 1974-1977 2.7L / 1976-77 3.0 Carrera
• Porsche 911 1978-1983 3.0L / SC
• Porsche 911 1975-1977 3.0L Turbo (930)
• Porsche 911 1978-1989 3.3L Turbo (930)

Positioned within the front right-hand wheel arch, the Trombone Oil Cooler forms an integral part of Porsche's legendary dry sump lubrication system. Its distinctive looped tube design increases the surface area exposed to airflow, allowing engine oil to dissipate heat before returning to the oil tank. Although simple in construction compared to later finned radiator-style coolers, the Trombone Oil Cooler proved to be an effective and reliable solution for controlling engine oil temperatures in early impact bumper 911s and first-generation 930 turbos.

Manufactured to OE Match specifications, this replacement offers factory-correct fitment, dependable performance and excellent durability, making it the ideal choice for restorations, preventative maintenance and originality-focused repairs.

What Does the Snake Type (Trombone) Oil Cooler Do?

Unlike water-cooled engines, air-cooled Porsche engines rely heavily on engine oil to remove heat as well as lubricate internal components. The front-mounted Trombone Oil Cooler helps to:

• Reduce engine oil temperatures.
• Improve heat dissipation during sustained driving.
• Maintain stable oil viscosity.
• Protect pistons, bearings and internal engine components.
• Improve engine reliability during hot weather and spirited driving.
• Extend engine life by maintaining consistent operating temperatures.

By cooling the oil before it returns to the engine, the Trombone Oil Cooler plays a vital role in preserving the health of your classic flat-six engine.

Why Do Trombone Oil Coolers Need Replacing?

After decades of service, the original oil cooler may suffer from:

• External corrosion caused by moisture and road salt.
• Stone damage from debris entering the wheel arch.
• Impact damage.
• Internal contamination.
• Fatigue cracks or pinhole leaks.
• Damage caused during previous repairs.
• Reduced cooling efficiency due to age.

Even a minor oil leak can lead to falling oil pressure and increased engine temperatures, making timely replacement essential.

Symptoms of a Failing Oil Cooler

Common warning signs include:

• Engine oil leaks around the front wheel arch.
• Oil residue on the cooling loop.
• Rising engine oil temperatures.
• Burning oil smell after driving.
• Visible corrosion or physical damage.
• Reduced cooling performance.
• Falling oil level without obvious engine leaks.

Any evidence of oil leakage should be investigated immediately to prevent costly engine damage.

When Should the Oil Cooler Be Replaced?

Replacement is recommended when:

• Oil leaks develop.
• The cooling loop becomes corroded or damaged.
• Accident damage has occurred.
• Restoring a classic Porsche to factory condition.
• Replacing front oil pipes or oil lines.
• Carrying out a complete engine rebuild or lubrication system overhaul.

Replacing ageing oil cooling components helps maintain optimum lubrication and protects your engine for years to come.

Why Choose an OE Match Oil Cooler?

Our OE Match Snake Type Oil Cooler has been manufactured to faithfully reproduce the original Porsche component.

Benefits include:

• Authentic Snake Type (Trombone) configuration.
• OE-quality construction and fitment.
• Precision-formed cooling loop.
• Excellent oil flow characteristics.
• Corrosion-resistant finish.
• Straightforward installation using factory mounting points.
• Perfect for restoration and maintenance projects.       

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91120705001

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