So, the OEM radiator sprung a leak. Time for a replacement. Yes, I know there’s Mishimoto, Kyorad, CSF, TYC, et al. Don’t know why, but the man trans radiators are considerably more expensive than the auto trans ones. I’m assuming it’s because one could fit the auto trans radiator on a manual trans car, so more are produced with the nipples for the auto trans cooler.
Need some opinions on purchasing an AT version for my MT and using the lower partition of the radiator as an oil cooler. Would the engine oil pressure overwhelm the pressure limit of the cooler? Thoughts?

 

Whether you are buying an OEM/OEM-style (plastic) or the aluminum aftermarket will determine whether you may be able to run it as an oil cooler.

 

There is no way the A/T cooler has enough flow capacity to handle the engin oil as a traditional aftermarket oil cooler would. Normally close to 100% of the engin oil is passed through an aftermarket oil cooler. The A/T will only pass a small portion of its fluid through the cooler so I wouldn't try.

 

Thanks rancor. I was wondering about that also. Appreciate the info.

 

Actually the smart thing to do would be get the A/T radiator, spend the money you saved on a nice 24 row oil cooler. WIN!