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Topic: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria (Read 437 times) previous topic - next topic

Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Considering adding a fuel cooler to our 1997 U320.  Read several other posts but have a few questions.
 
What should I look for in a cooler.  I see them from $40 to $340.  Are the $340 models made with substantially better materials or offer substantially better heat transfer capabilities to warrant a premium price?
 
How large should it be?  For example, the first one below is offered in sized from 12" x 7.5" up to 20" x 7.5" 
 
Any preferences on the inlet/outlet locations, etc, etc?
 
Thanks!
 
Mishimoto $65
Amazon.com: Mishimoto - MMTC-TF-1275 Universal Transmission Fluid Cooler,...

Hayden $37.91
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Hayden-Trans-Oil-Cooler-677/307913620?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&mtc=Shopping-VF-F_D25T-G-D25T-25_31_GARAGE_AUTOMOTIVE-Multi-NA-Feed-LIA-NA-NA-GarageAutomotive_LIA_HolidayPlusUp&cm_mmc=Shopping-VF-F_D25T-G-D25T-25_31_GARAGE_AUTOMOTIVE-Multi-NA-Feed-LIA-NA-NA-GarageAutomotive_LIA_HolidayPlusUp-71700000076577328-58700006514997011-92700058904941540&gclid=CjwKCAiA2O39BRBjEiwApB2IkvEJLaBkgRavrInkTGNMYQ-LPkzFFa9ynJf-0mnrleUcKzyFsLkvpxoClW4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
 
Hayden $40.99
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/hda-677?seid=srese1&gclid=CjwKCAiA2O39BRBjEiwApB2IkrUvp7G1e54j8T7rI8OE5gBtsTY_SYV1JWWJlschGpkDF5NverGedxoC7PgQAvD_BwE
 
Mishimoto  $105
Amazon.com: Mishimoto MMOC-10WT Universal 10 Row Oil Cooler, White: Automotive
 
Mishimoto $345
Amazon.com: Mishimoto MMTC-DMAX-01SL Transmission Cooler Compatible With...
 

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
40ft 1997 U320

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #1 –
One of the criteria would be how hoses attach to it.  If you can make them the same style as the engine end of the fuel return line, that makes one less headache.

I would not use just "hose push on" connections unless that is how your return line is attached at the engine end.

Hayden does make a number of appropriate coolers.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #2 –
Thanks Brett.  As I was looking at them more, I did notice the push on fittings were 3/8" as compared to the 1/2" return line, so getting something with AN-10 fittings makes more sense.

Any thoughts on the size or how many rows?  Are the smaller ones sufficient for this application?
40ft 1997 U320

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #3 –
Foretravel began installing them as OE.  See what size they used for your application (M engine).

Or, perhaps someone else with an M engine can check theirs.

Also, in really cold weather, I had a "cover" with velcro to secure it to itself so fuel was not over-cooled.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #4 –
Mine Isc 350 has 1/2"ID lines for return through the fuel cooler from the factory. When I replaced the lines I reused the push on fittings that Foretravel used as they worked fo 20 years. The return line has very little pressure. I never worry about covering mine but I'm a 50-70 degree type person. Unless you plan on running in real cold weather below 20 for extended periods not much need for a cover. But as always DWMYFG.
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #5 –
DayDream I will be putting in a fuel cooler next spring so I would be interested in what you put in,
Peter and Frieda Morin
1999 36ft. U320 Foretravel
Build # 5436
1998 Suzuki Sidekick Sport
 

Re: Fuel Cooler Selection Criteria

Reply #6 –
The mishimoto do have some of the coolers with a actual thermostats in the cooler. My Dodge truck mishimoto has one. Prior owner had installed it. Would be difficult to Cover the cooler on my 2001 U320 with fixed louvers over it. If your going to operate in polar conditions it might be worth it. I'll never know. ECM life likes cold fuel for cooling. Lower fuel tank temperature is also good in my world. Good idea to add a cooler. Don't forget the mount system for it also. Cooler sellers may say it's okay to TyRAP to CAC but I would not recommend. Build mount similar to what Foretravel did. Stand alone mount. Fuel feed and return lines on mine pass over top of radiator. Connect with flared hose ends that have barbed push on fittings similar to fitting used thru out the coach. Your cooler will hook up to fuel ECM cooler outlet to tank fuel return line. If you run hard in the desert at Hi Outside temperature bigger is better. More fuel in the tank too. If you want pictures of anything let me know. I or someone can provide.
Scott