The MGB GT V8 was fitted with an engine oil cooler as standard from the start of production, a recognition that the V8's higher specific output and the closed GT body's restricted under-bonnet airflow place greater thermal demands on the engine oil than the four-cylinder MGB. The factory oil cooler is a 10-row matrix mounted at the front of the engine bay where airflow through the front grille passes over the cooler before reaching the radiator.
The standard 10-row cooler fits both chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper V8 models.
Oil Cooler Hoses
Oil cooler hoses connect the remote oil filter assembly to the cooler, with one feed hose and one return hose. The hoses differ between chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper models due to the revised front-end packaging that came with the rubber-bumper transition.
Original-pattern rubber hoses are available alongside stainless braided alternatives that offer longer service life and resistance to the heat and chemical exposure of the engine bay environment.
Hose Kits by Bumper Type
Stainless braided oil hose kits are available specifically matched to either chrome-bumper or rubber-bumper installations. The kits include the correct lengths and end-fittings for the relevant period and are supplied with the hoses ready to fit. Owners should specify their car's bumper type when ordering, as chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper kits are not interchangeable due to the different routing and length requirements.
Oil Cooler Mounting
The oil cooler is mounted to the body with screws, brackets and rubber-isolated mounting points. The mounting hardware differs between chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper models due to the revised front-end structure.
Replacement mounting items, screws and isolators are available individually.
Higher-Capacity Oil Cooler
A larger 16-row oil cooler is available as an upgrade where additional oil cooling capacity is required, for example on hard-driven cars or in warm-climate use. The 16-row unit physically replaces the 10-row cooler with revised pipework and is intended for owners seeking improved sustained thermal performance.
Where a 16-row cooler is fitted, the standard hose kits will need to be checked for length and may require modification or replacement to suit.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies 10-row standard oil coolers, 16-row higher-capacity coolers, original-pattern rubber hoses and stainless braided hose kits in chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper specifications, mounting hardware and all associated fittings for the MGB GT V8.