It seems like most of the debate about whether to fit an oil cooler onto 03/04 D2s happened years ago, but nothing lately. With all the much more history we have with these engines, does anyone have a final-ish consensus on whether adding one has much of an effect in terms of engine longevity?

 

I have nothing specific to Rovers but I would want to know what temp my oil is running at and base a decision on that and information such as given in this article

https://www.hotrod.com/articles/engine-oil-temperature/

 

I have added them, but have nothing scientific to add except that oil coolers are good based on all the research. So, if you can add one you should.

 

i believe that you have to replace the front engine cover as well as adding the cooler. something about the later ones having one of the ports blocked off.

 

I added an oil cooler this summer and it is absolutely worth it. Oil temps were reduced by about 20 degrees F. Uphill under full load at outside temps in the high 90s I saw oil temps of up to 250 degrees F without cooler. At this temperature Rotella T5 breaks down already. And this was measured at the oil filter, for sure oil temps get a lot higher when in the engine.

Most likely you have to replace the front cover and get one with two relief valves. I tried the stock ports and it didn't work, because the second relief valve piece is missing, so the oil radiator gets bypassed all the time. A cheaper and easier solution is to use a sandwich plate. I got one with integrated thermostat, which is even an improvement over the D2 stock design.

Here is my story:
https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...ys-cold-95865/