Looking for Advice on LS1 Oil Cooler Block Off Plate Issues

Technical Issues
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Seeking Help with LS1 Oil Cooler Block Off Plate

Hey everyone,

I’m in the process of working on my LS1 engine and I’m considering installing an oil cooler block-off plate. However, I have a few questions and would love to get your insights and advice.

Installation Advice

First off, has anyone here recently installed a block-off plate for the LS1? If so, were there any specific challenges you faced during the installation? I’ve read some technical guides, but I’d like to hear about real-world experiences from the community. Any particular tools or techniques that made the job easier?

Problems and Solutions

I’ve also come across some discussions about potential leaks after the installation of these plates. If you’ve encountered any issues with leaks or loss of pressure, how did you resolve them? I’m keen on avoiding any costly mistakes or damage to my engine.

Product Recommendations

If you have a go-to block-off plate that you recommend, please share it! I want to make sure I get a quality product that fits well. I’m open to checking out different brands and would love to hear your opinions on which ones perform best.

Performance Impact

Lastly, for those who have made this modification, how did it affect your engine’s performance and overall maintenance? Did you notice any significant differences in oil temperatures or pressures?

Thank you in advance for any insights you can provide! Looking forward to your responses. Your input would really help me make an informed decision and ensure a successful installation.

Cheers,

vgarcia

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Has anyone here experienced difficulties with sealing the LS1 oil cooler block off plate? I’ve been struggling to get a tight fit.

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Be sure to use a good quality gasket and apply some RTV sealant. It’s made a huge difference for me during installation!

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I did a full oil cooler delete on my LS1 recently. The most common challenge I faced was getting the mounting bolts to the right tension without stripping. Remember to torque them evenly!

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Great point! A torque wrench is essential. I struggled too until I grabbed one. Definitely saves time and frustration.

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Has anyone tried using stock parts vs aftermarket block off plates? I’m wondering if there’s any difference in sealing ability.

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I’ve only used aftermarket and they’ve worked fine, but make sure they’re compatible with your engine year! Always check.

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Installing the block off plate could be a frustrating trial-and-error process, but patience is key! Don’t rush, take it slow.

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So true! I felt like I was wrestling with it, but taking a break helped me refocus and get it right!

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You guys find using a ratchet wrench works better? I used one, and the angle was way better for tightening in that cramped space.

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Absolutely! It made a world of difference for me too. It’s like trying to assemble a jigsaw puzzle in the dark!

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Blocking off the oil cooler can lead to higher oil temperatures, especially under aggressive driving conditions. It may improve flow slightly, but be cautious about engine overheating.

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That makes sense! I’ve heard that some folks see better performance in cooler climates without the cooler, but it’s a risk in hotter conditions.

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In my experience, after blocking the oil cooler, I noticed a change in response time during street racing. However, I monitor my oil temp constantly to avoid any surprises!

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I’ve just removed mine for winter driving. So far, so good, but I’m not pushing it too hard. It’s a bit of an experiment for me.

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That’s smart! Do you have recommendations for temperature gauges? I’d want to keep a close eye too.

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I’ve also blocked mine off, but I only do short drives. No issues yet! Just keep an eye on that oil temperature, folks.

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Blocking off the cooler is a slippery slope. Performance improvements can be overshadowed by potential overheating, especially in track use. Caution should be exercised!

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Exactly! I’ve heard it’s a trade-off. You get potential gains but might sacrifice reliability. It’s tough to balance.

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I think if you’re not pushing the engine hard, you could be fine without it. But if you’re racing, I’d err on the side of keeping the cooler. This is really a nuanced topic!