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Crusader 8.1 oil/trans cooler replacement

Posted: May 12th, 2026, 2:14 am
by thatchh
I have a 2004 396 with twin Crusader 8.1 mpi's. I think this would apply to other twin 8.1 boats as well. I'm starting the replacement of the dual tube oil coolers. The port engine has the cooler on the inboard side which makes this an annoying but possible job. The starboard engine has the cooler in the same position on the engine which means it's on the outboard side. (Thanks, Crusader) This makes the access somewhere between life-threatening and impossible. Has anyone successfully replaced their outboard oil cooler? I would appreciate any tips or tricks you might be able to share.
I am considering disconnecting the old hoses at the engine and mounting the new cooler on the inboard side. I think the specified hydraulic hoses would reach and raw water hose changes would be relatively minor.
Thanks,
Thatch in Seattle