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V-mount conversion back to stock configuration radiator install

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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 10:58 AM
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V-mount conversion back to stock configuration radiator install

We are converting from a V-mount back to a stock configuration.
We are installing a new Koyo radiator and have read the posts about that on the forum.
We never worked on the setup before we had the v-mount installed.
Do a test fit is revealing some problems.
It looks like the shop, that installed the v-mount "compressed" the power steering lines so
instead of them being able to go underneath the radiator they are smashed at the bottom and the radiator and it won’t slide in.
Is this correct, please see the pics.
It does not seem like we can "expand" the power steering lines back out because the line from the pump seems short, maybe it was shortened when the vmount was put in.

smashed power steering lines

smashed power steering lines

power steering line to cooler lines

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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 11:05 AM
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Yeah for most intercooler installs you have to hack up the PS cooler loop. Probably best just to find a used assembly with the hoses and everything, they never really go bad or leak. Trying to re-bend them and put them back originally would be a chore.

Dale
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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 11:23 AM
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So when you say used assembly, you mean the metal cooler loop + line up to the pump, right?
Not the whole power steering pump plus lines asembly?

Is the line from the ps pump to the lines usually shortened for a v-mount install?

Also, how does thge loop get secured?
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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 04:37 PM
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I think some of the Japanese kits come complete with a new line entirely - which is probably the better way, if retaining a loop. We just used an old oil cooler.

Depending on the angle of the dangle, IC size and how concerned you are about ground clearance, the stock line can sometimes be tweaked. Looks like one entire 180 return has been cut off on your's, probably no bead on the cut end either, just relying on a hose clamp. Been a long time between drinks since I last saw a stock one, but vaguely remember a couple of rubber lined L clips attach to the rails each side.

Your lower rad/ARB pick-ups look a bit out of plane too - and often modified for v mounts - might be worthwhile double checking before wearing a hole in the Koyo! Seems your location would be prime location for a vmic.
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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 07:02 PM
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Since we added a dual oil cooler kit, we have the old stock oil cooler as well as some oil cooler we decided not to use. Do you have a pic how you used a oil collar in place of the loops.

If we can’t find a used loop to replace what we have , we are thinking about bending our own pipe to make one. Would that be excessively difficult?

Last edited by all4fuun; Dec 26, 2021 at 07:55 PM.
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Old Dec 26, 2021 | 07:05 PM
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The factory ps cooler line mounts with rubber lined clamps as mentioned. One mount point is in the passenger sway bar mount and the other is somewhere else lol.

That looks crappy and super annoying and I hate their are places that actually charge to do crap like that. As far as a solution goes, you can use a small independent cooler if you want, run a hose from one end to the other while taking the longest possible path, delete ps or get another used loop set up. The ps cooler isn't really all that critical so just deleting the hard line assembly and using a ps safe/compatible rubber hose would suffice.

Just route it from the rack along the front of the car and then back down to the other side. It will end up as a big U shape
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Old Dec 27, 2021 | 01:03 AM
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Nothing pic wise on the oil cooler. A fair bit of dicking around involved, between fitting angles, rubber mounts and brackets.....primarily because it was way oversize for this purpose. If I was to do it that way again, I'd probably go a half width setrab or similar, with the least number of rows.

Did try making up a loop out of 1/2" alloy tube initially with a cheap tube bender I had on hand. It didn't work out, despite a couple of attempts.....and the last time sand filled. YMMV though, and possibly more skilled in tight radius bends than me and succeed though. They're still available new for a couple hundred if you want to have full oem installation. I've seen a used one on the japanese auctions not long ago too if locally sourced is difficult, otherwise a refrigeration mechanic or AC specialist, might be my next port of call to avoid the frustration.
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Old Dec 27, 2021 | 10:09 AM
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Originally the lines would have bolted to the frame rail I think and possibly the sway bar brackets as stated.

Don't need EVERYTHING just the loop and the lines that attach to the rack and pump most likely.

Also I think that part is different for RHD cars so get the appropriate parts.

Dale
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Old Dec 27, 2021 | 02:58 PM
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I have all OEM parts for LHD
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Old Dec 27, 2021 | 03:01 PM
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Tomsn16:
Can you send a pic and price.
PM me if you prefer.
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Old Dec 27, 2021 | 04:00 PM
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Originally Posted by all4fuun
Tomsn16:
Can you send a pic and price.
PM me if you prefer.

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Old Dec 28, 2021 | 01:52 PM
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Also that loop goes in front of the stock radiator and AC condenser. You can see it through the opening in the front of the car.

That part is exactly what you need, get that bolt on and be done.

Dale
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Old Dec 28, 2021 | 02:12 PM
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I did exactly that.
Tom said he would ship it in a day or 2.
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Old Jan 22, 2022 | 01:58 PM
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I am puttinng on the new PS loops. Since I never saw how the oem one goes I have been trying to figure this out.
I think I got it most right but there is the rear bracket on the left drivers side I cant figure out, and rear bracket on the right side does not seem to line up with where it should.

Any pointer or pics of properly installed PS loops would be much appreciated.

Right side rear bracket not lining up where I think it goes

drivers side rear braket , cant figure out where it goes

Last edited by all4fuun; Jan 22, 2022 at 02:03 PM.
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Old Jan 22, 2022 | 02:10 PM
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It is confusing trying to figure out where that thing bolts up.

It's worth eliminating bolt holes, like the ones that the belly pan bolts up to.

May also want to look at some pictures of various intercooler installs (FMIC and VMIC) and you can probably spot some pointers. All those types of kits require doing something about that loop.

Dale
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