The factory MGB GT V8 was fitted with a 10-row engine oil cooler as standard. For most road use, the 10-row cooler maintains adequate oil temperature in normal British driving.
However, for cars used hard, in warmer climates, on track days, or fitted with a higher-output capacity-upgrade engine, the standard cooler can struggle to keep oil temperatures within the desirable range. Sustained high oil temperatures accelerate oil degradation, reduce film strength at bearing surfaces, and can cause hot-running issues that propagate into other systems.
16-Row Oil Cooler
A higher-capacity 16-row oil cooler is available as a direct replacement for the standard 10-row unit. The 16-row unit offers significantly greater heat-dissipation capacity and is a worthwhile fitment for cars used in any of the conditions noted above. The 16-row cooler fits the same general location as the 10-row item, although mounting brackets and hose lengths may need to be checked for fit during installation.
Stainless Braided Oil Hoses
Stainless braided oil hoses replace the original rubber hoses with hoses constructed from a synthetic inner liner contained within a woven stainless steel outer braid. The braided hoses offer significantly longer service life than rubber, do not perish or swell with age and exposure to the underbonnet environment, and provide a more consistent flow characteristic. Hose kits are matched to either chrome-bumper or rubber-bumper installations and should be ordered for the correct period to ensure correct routing and lengths.
Oil Temperature Monitoring
An oil temperature gauge allows the driver to monitor oil temperature directly, providing early warning of overheating or unusual operating conditions. Aftermarket oil temperature gauges fit alongside the factory instrument layout via auxiliary gauge mounting brackets, with the temperature sender typically fitted in the oil filter head or oil pan.
Specification
The appropriate level of oil cooling upgrade depends on the car's use. The 16-row cooler with stainless braided hoses is a sensible package for most fast-road use; cars used on track or with significantly uprated engines may benefit from larger coolers, oil temperature monitoring and remote-mounted oil reservoirs. The parts team can advise on the appropriate specification.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies 16-row oil coolers, stainless braided hose kits in chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper specifications, oil temperature gauges and senders, and associated mounting hardware for the MGB GT V8.