[Blainefab]

Announcing the Blaine Fab power steering cooler package - this package has been race proven on the Blaine Fab ITE 4th gen, and many AI and CMC 4th gen cars.

Easy install with a drill, pop riveter and screwdriver. No cutting on LT1 cars, uses existing hole in the radiator shroud. LS1 cars require cutting a hole in the plastic shroud.

Package includes:
B&M stacked plate cooler
pipe to -AN adapters
-AN hose ends
Goodyear power steering hose
aluminum bracket, predrilled and attached to cooler
pop rivets for attachment to shroud

Cost is $145 + CA sales tax for deliveries in CA, + shipping

add 2qt of Redline Power steering fluid for $24

(IMG:http://www.blainefabrication.com/projects/2010_04_02/IMG_3383.JPG)

This post has been edited by Blainefab: Mar 26 2015, 12:53 AM

[Steve91T]

I wanted to give a little review of this product.

I've had it on my car for a few months now, and with 2 full HPDE's at VIR (Virginia International Raceway). First, I want to say that Alan puts together a very nice kit. It's very simple to install, and only took me maybe 30 minutes from start to finish.

The PS cooler works very well. I used to have to clean up PS fluid after every session, even in cool weather and the PS pump would be very loud upon exiting the track. With the cooler, no noise from the PS pump, and the fluid has not boiled over at all. It works like a charm.

I have an old PS pump (could be the original), that's been abused by past track days, and I used PS fluid from Advanced.


Alan's PS cooler is worth every penny, and as always, it's a pleasure doing business with him. I highly recommend it.

I snapped this pic with my phone to show it installed on my car.

(IMG:http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v199/Steve91T/Camaro/2011-10-18_12-41-18_666.jpg)

[jdoyle]

alan:

are you still selling these?

[Blainefab]

alan:

are you still selling these?

Dunno how I missed this question, but yes, I am still selling this package. It is quite popular.

[Jano4]

Looks like a fairly clean setup. I may purchase one from you in the coming season, assuming you are putting them together still.

[Blainefab]

Looks like a fairly clean setup. I may purchase one from you in the coming season, assuming you are putting them together still.

Yes. still part of my product line. I try to keep one set of parts in stock, if not my disti always has stock of the piece parts.

This post has been edited by Blainefab: May 18 2014, 11:28 PM

[Libertyforall177...]

LS1 Camaro: Am I meant to attach the cooler to the plastic shroud bottom, or to the metal frame beneath that? It is not too clear where it should attach. Also, is the plastic shroud enough to hold the cooler in place by the bottom only, or do I attach somewhere near the top as well?

TIA

(IMG:http://i.imgur.com/Ru7SNMZ.jpg)

This post has been edited by Libertyforall1776: Apr 28 2015, 12:59 AM

[Blainefab]

LS1 Camaro: Am I meant to attach the cooler to the plastic shroud bottom, or to the metal frame beneath that? It is not too clear where it should attach. Also, is the plastic shroud enough to hold the cooler in place by the bottom only, or do I attach somewhere near the top as well?

TIA

The cooler bracket goes under the bottom edge of the plastic shroud - my pics are down right now, but Steve posted a pic of his install on a LT1 car, a couple of posts up. The LS1 install is very similar - same place. The template wraps around the bottom corner of the shroud, mark and cut the hole with a dremel or knife, hold the cooler in place and mark the holes thru the bracket. Drill parallel to the face of the radiator, do not drill into the radiator.

Once the cooler is attached at the bottom and the hoses are routed, zip tie the hoses to the fan shroud to support them from flopping around. This is all
the support that the cooler needs.

[Jimbow]

Is the price still the same?

[Blainefab]

Is the price still the same?

Yes, pricing is current

[Blainefab]

Several folks have asked about my solution for PS fluid puking out of the reservoir - the OEM reservoir is just too small to handle the volume, esp after it heats up. Running the level at the very lowest possible helps, but more volume is better for heat control, not less.

I've been installing the Woodward PS reservoir - it solves all the puking issues, adds volume to the system, and is easy to mount and plumb.

Here it is (on the left) in Kens car - for a stripped track car there are lots of places it can go:

(IMG:http://www.blainefabrication.com/projects/2010_05_20/IMG_3629.JPG)

I'm considering adding a reservoir option to my product line it would include the bracket, fittings and hose. I'd like to make it as plug 'n play as possible, but don't have a stock LS1 car here at the shop for fitment. If anybody local has a LS1 car and would like a discount in exchange for me test fitting the reservoir, please give me a call.

This post has been edited by Blainefab: Jul 23 2016, 05:49 AM

[jdoyle]

Several folks have asked about my solution for PS fluid puking out of the reservoir - the OEM reservoir is just to small to handle the volume, esp after it heats up. Running the level at the very lowest possible helps, but more volume is better for heat control, not less.

I've been installing the Woodward PS reservoir - it solves all the puking issues, adds volume to the system, and is easy to mount and plumb.

Here it is (on the left) in Kens car - for a stripped track there are lots of place it can go:

I'm considering adding a reservoir option to my product line it would include the bracket, fittings and hose. I'd like to make it as plug 'n play as possible, but don't have a stock LS1 car here at the shop for fitment. If anybody local has a LS1 car and would like a discount in exchange for me test fitting the reservoir, please give me a call.

cool.

this may be a dumb question. does the woodward reservoir replace the OEM reservoir or is it a second reservoir?

This post has been edited by jdoyle: Apr 29 2015, 10:56 PM

[Blainefab]

Several folks have asked about my solution for PS fluid puking out of the reservoir - the OEM reservoir is just to small to handle the volume, esp after it heats up. Running the level at the very lowest possible helps, but more volume is better for heat control, not less.

I've been installing the Woodward PS reservoir - it solves all the puking issues, adds volume to the system, and is easy to mount and plumb.

Here it is (on the left) in Kens car - for a stripped track there are lots of place it can go:

I'm considering adding a reservoir option to my product line it would include the bracket, fittings and hose. I'd like to make it as plug 'n play as possible, but don't have a stock LS1 car here at the shop for fitment. If anybody local has a LS1 car and would like a discount in exchange for me test fitting the reservoir, please give me a call.

cool.

this may be a dumb question. does the woodward reservoir replace the OEM reservoir or is it a second reservoir?

It would replace the OEM part.

[BryanL]

If I was close you could use mine. I'm ready to order the reservoir-wasn't sure about the bracket as what you show in your picture I don't think is on there website. Haven't looked at what kind of fitting and hoses I would need as well. I'm tired of the mess.

I added the BlaineFab cooler kit before my last race. Excellent kit that had everything I needed-well I needed extra pop rivets but that's because of user error. Highly recommended.

[jdoyle]

Alan, I'd like to help you out if you haven't found someone to test your new reservoir idea.

Also, i have essentially zero experience with AN fittings. i have a SMALL leak either where the AN fittings meet the cooler or at the AN swivel. In your experience, do the AN fittings need to be tightened down a lot to not leak? Thank you

This post has been edited by jdoyle: Jun 18 2015, 09:54 PM

[Blainefab]

Alan, I'd like to help you out if you haven't found someone to test your new reservoir idea.

Also, i have essentially zero experience with AN fittings. i have a SMALL leak either where the AN fittings meet the cooler or at the AN swivel. In your experience, do the AN fittings need to be tightened down a lot to not leak? Thank you

The AN flare fitting seals with very little pressure, that's why AN wrenches are so short - choke up on your wrench till it's effectively about 6" long, and tighten the AN fitting snug. The 1/2" NPT to AN6 adapters are sealed with pipe dope or teflon tape - if that is the source of the leak, you'll need to remove the AN fitting, remove the adapter, clean both male and female threads, being careful to not get any thread sealant inside the cooler, and then reapply thread sealant. To remove/replace the adapter, put a wrench on the cooler fitting to avoid overstressing the brazed connection.


It will help to clean it up real good - a shot of brakeclean works, or soapy water and a rinse. Then watch for the leak source.

[jdoyle]

Alan, I'd like to help you out if you haven't found someone to test your new reservoir idea.

Also, i have essentially zero experience with AN fittings. i have a SMALL leak either where the AN fittings meet the cooler or at the AN swivel. In your experience, do the AN fittings need to be tightened down a lot to not leak? Thank you

The AN flare fitting seals with very little pressure, that's why AN wrenches are so short - choke up on your wrench till it's effectively about 6" long, and tighten the AN fitting snug. The 1/2" NPT to AN6 adapters are sealed with pipe dope or teflon tape - if that is the source of the leak, you'll need to remove the AN fitting, remove the adapter, clean both male and female threads, being careful to not get any thread sealant inside the cooler, and then reapply thread sealant. To remove/replace the adapter, put a wrench on the cooler fitting to avoid overstressing the brazed connection.


It will help to clean it up real good - a shot of brakeclean works, or soapy water and a rinse. Then watch for the leak source.

what pipe dope do you like to use?

can i thread both connections with teflon tape? the swivel to the other AN and the other AN to the cooler.

do you prefer dope or tape?

Thank you very much for assisting me with my issue.

This post has been edited by jdoyle: Apr 5 2016, 03:41 PM

[CrashTestDummy]

Hmm, how tall is that reservoir, Alan? I am running an Afco reservoir and still getting drips even when using dirt-track PSF that's supposed to be more viscous. It looks like a lot of thought went into the construction of the Woodward reservoirs. It might be time to update. I was thinking of trying to add some sort of breather, to prevent pushing the fluid around the cap when things heat up, but this might be a better solution. Thanks.

[Blainefab]

Alan, I'd like to help you out if you haven't found someone to test your new reservoir idea.

Also, i have essentially zero experience with AN fittings. i have a SMALL leak either where the AN fittings meet the cooler or at the AN swivel. In your experience, do the AN fittings need to be tightened down a lot to not leak? Thank you

The AN flare fitting seals with very little pressure, that's why AN wrenches are so short - choke up on your wrench till it's effectively about 6" long, and tighten the AN fitting snug. The 1/2" NPT to AN6 adapters are sealed with pipe dope or teflon tape - if that is the source of the leak, you'll need to remove the AN fitting, remove the adapter, clean both male and female threads, being careful to not get any thread sealant inside the cooler, and then reapply thread sealant. To remove/replace the adapter, put a wrench on the cooler fitting to avoid overstressing the brazed connection.


It will help to clean it up real good - a shot of brakeclean works, or soapy water and a rinse. Then watch for the leak source.

what pipe dope do you like to use?

can i thread both connections with teflon tape? the swivel to the other AN and the other AN to the cooler.

do you prefer dope or tape?

Thank you very much for assisting me with my issue.

I use Permatex High Temp thread sealant - it's a white goo. I use the thread sealant on NPT threads sealing wet stuff, teflon tape on dry.

AN fittings get only a dab of antiseize on the threads, make sure the conical seating faces are clean and dry. Tighten with a short wrench - do not overtighten.

[Blainefab]

Hmm, how tall is that reservoir, Alan? I am running an Afco reservoir and still getting drips even when using dirt-track PSF that's supposed to be more viscous. It looks like a lot of thought went into the construction of the Woodward reservoirs. It might be time to update. I was thinking of trying to add some sort of breather, to prevent pushing the fluid around the cap when things heat up, but this might be a better solution. Thanks.

The Woodward reservoir is 10" tall cap to bottom of outlet fitting - it comes with -6an male inlet, -10an male outlet fittings. I have a couple in stock, along with mounting brackets, 5/8" ID Gates PS return hose. I stocked up on this stuff before I realized that the OEM Fbody LS1 PS reservoir is not removable from the pump without some fab work. I can make a bolt on package for the LT1 cars or any other application with an external reservoir.

The Woodward reservoir is definitely a nice piece - the double wall de-aerates the fluid. I've use this reservoir on all my builds, never had a problem.

here it is next to a 2qt Canton coolant recirc tank:
(IMG:http://www.blainefabrication.com/projects/2010_05_20/IMG_3629.JPG)

This post has been edited by Blainefab: Jul 23 2016, 05:42 AM

[dailydriver]

Yes, some kind of solution (block off plates/fittings, seals, adapters, etc.) which would allow the use of this reservoir on stock type/factory LS1 pumps would be welcome!! (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/gr_grin.gif)

[Badtzmauri]

Do you make a kit for the reservoir to work with a stock ls1 p/s pump? Price?

[CrashTestDummy]

Hmm, how tall is that reservoir, Alan? I am running an Afco reservoir and still getting drips even when using dirt-track PSF that's supposed to be more viscous. It looks like a lot of thought went into the construction of the Woodward reservoirs. It might be time to update. I was thinking of trying to add some sort of breather, to prevent pushing the fluid around the cap when things heat up, but this might be a better solution. Thanks.

The Woodward reservoir is 10" tall cap to bottom of outlet fitting - it comes with -6an male inlet, -10an male outlet fittings. I have a couple in stock, along with mounting brackets, 5/8" ID Gates PD return hose. I stocked up on this stuff before I realized that the OEM Fbody LS1 PS reservoir is not removable from the pump without some fab work. I can make a bolt on package for the LT1 cars or any other application with an external reservoir.

The Woodward reservoir is definitely a nice piece - the double wall de-aerates the fluid. I've use this reservoir on all my builds, never had a problem.

here it is next to a 2qt Canton coolant recirc tank:
(IMG:http://www.blainefabrication.com/projects/2010_05_20/IMG_3629.JPG)

That might just work. I'll measure the tank to night, but I think I have space. Since I already have hoses running to the existing tank, -6 top, -10 bottom, may I just order the tank?

Edit: 10" will be perfect!

This post has been edited by CrashTestDummy: Apr 12 2016, 12:54 PM

[CrashTestDummy]

The reservoir is here, and installed. Thanks, Alan!! I did have to relocate my mounting bracket, as the -10 adapter for the feed line moved the reservoir up a bit. Nothing a drill couldn't fix. So, any thoughts on how full to fill it?

[Blainefab]

Do you make a kit for the reservoir to work with a stock ls1 p/s pump? Price?

not at this time

[Blainefab]

The reservoir is here, and installed. Thanks, Alan!! I did have to relocate my mounting bracket, as the -10 adapter for the feed line moved the reservoir up a bit. Nothing a drill couldn't fix. So, any thoughts on how full to fill it?

I run Kens about 2" down from the top, no spooging.

[CrashTestDummy]

Thanks. I think I'm a little over-full now, then. I'll wait to run it and make sure I don't have much air in the system before adjusting any volume.

[CrashTestDummy]

I realized I hadn't updated this thread since the install back in April. The reservoir is freaking AWESOME!!! So far, no leaks, even after running on very aggressive concrete in 100+-deg F temperatures. I may still add a better cooler, just to help the pump and steering gear seals live, but it doesn't look like we're spilling any more PSF all over the engine bay.

Thanks, Alan!! (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif)

[mikedamageinc]

Hey Alan, any chance you have found a way to add a reservoir to LS1 pumps?

Even with underdrive pulley, large cooler, Redline fluid, Turn 1 pump, and running at the "low" line, I still have overflow, and shuddering at parking lot speeds, but not sure about that

This post has been edited by mikedamageinc: Sep 20 2018, 11:01 PM

[Pranav]

I have added a reservoir to my pump. When PSC rebuilt/deflowed it for me I had them tap the inlet/reservoir hole of the pump 1/2" NPT into which I threaded a 10an adapter. 10 AN hose to a remote reservoir that sits high and just above the pump, stores a lot more fluid and keeps it contained.

Need to dig up a pic.

[JimMueller]

I started having groaning while turning at slow speeds immediately after I converted my OEM PS lines to -6AN using the parts provided by TurnOne. I've got Alan's cooler, Redline fluid, TurnOne pump & fittings. Not sure how to trace it?

[mikedamageinc]

I have added a reservoir to my pump. When PSC rebuilt/deflowed it for me I had them tap the inlet/reservoir hole of the pump 1/2" NPT into which I threaded a 10an adapter. 10 AN hose to a remote reservoir that sits high and just above the pump, stores a lot more fluid and keeps it contained.

Need to dig up a pic.

Thats exactly what I was thinking about, a pic would be awesome if you can get some

I started having groaning while turning at slow speeds immediately after I converted my OEM PS lines to -6AN using the parts provided by TurnOne. I've got Alan's cooler, Redline fluid, TurnOne pump & fittings. Not sure how to trace it?

How long are your lines? I think mine started when I went to a larger cooler and ran the lines up and around the fans so the pump might be having a harder time pushing thru, especially with longer lines, bigger cooler, deflowed pump

[trackbird]

I started having groaning while turning at slow speeds immediately after I converted my OEM PS lines to -6AN using the parts provided by TurnOne. I've got Alan's cooler, Redline fluid, TurnOne pump & fittings. Not sure how to trace it?

I have the exact same issue on my car. Turn one pump, 10% under drive pulley and -6AN lines. I've been meaning to call Turn One for a quick chat.

[JimMueller]

I have the exact same issue on my car. Turn one pump, 10% under drive pulley and -6AN lines. I've been meaning to call Turn One for a quick chat.

I don't have an underdrive pulley. When I spoke with Junior at T1 prior to ordering the TUR11, he said to ensure I mentioned the make/model to ensure I received the correct orifice size. After install, he said I shouldn't be having the problem and we'd need to verify the orifice size. He described how to measure it but I've since forgotten. I'll have to get under the car to measure the AN lines. I already had the PS cooler with the OEM lines, so the only thing that changed for me were the lines and fittings at the ends of the hoses.

This post has been edited by JimMueller: Sep 20 2018, 09:11 PM

[mikedamageinc]

I didnt even know about the AN fittings when I ordered my pump. Hopefully I got the right orifice, I told them LS1/1999 F body.

I'm thinking that tapping the pump inlet for AN to remote res, using AN hose for cooler and return but stick with factory style pressure hose. That way I can pick up a replacement at any parts store if needed.

[JimMueller]

I went to lunch with the guy who fabbed and installed my -6AN lines for the conversion. He said the ID of the 6AN lines seemed slightly smaller than the OEM lines, so perhaps it's not getting enough volume. If we went to -8AN, then we might get too much volume. I don't have my OEM lines to compare, but if that's the issue then I don't know what the happy medium would be unless we changed the orifice size on the pressure side of the pump.

[Mojave]

I went to lunch with the guy who fabbed and installed my -6AN lines for the conversion. He said the ID of the 6AN lines seemed slightly smaller than the OEM lines, so perhaps it's not getting enough volume. If we went to -8AN, then we might get too much volume. I don't have my OEM lines to compare, but if that's the issue then I don't know what the happy medium would be unless we changed the orifice size on the pressure side of the pump.

How would a bigger line cause too much volume? The pump should be responsible for how much fluid gets pumped at what pressure.

[trackbird]

I went to lunch with the guy who fabbed and installed my -6AN lines for the conversion. He said the ID of the 6AN lines seemed slightly smaller than the OEM lines, so perhaps it's not getting enough volume. If we went to -8AN, then we might get too much volume. I don't have my OEM lines to compare, but if that's the issue then I don't know what the happy medium would be unless we changed the orifice size on the pressure side of the pump.

How would a bigger line cause too much volume? The pump should be responsible for how much fluid gets pumped at what pressure.

Agreed. It would have to be a flow valve or flow rate issue. But not likely something caused by the hoses. PS Pumps can run at pressures over 1000 PSI and if it's in the mood to push fluid through there...it's going to do it.

[GNC Rick]

Are you still experiencing a low groan and slow speeds or did y'all find a solution. I have similar set up with a cooler and turn one pump...

[trackbird]

Are you still experiencing a low groan and slow speeds or did y'all find a solution. I have similar set up with a cooler and turn one pump...

I finally got my car out last night and it's still doing it. I forgot about it since I haven't really been driving it much. I still need to call turn one.

[Mojave]

Are you still experiencing a low groan and slow speeds or did y'all find a solution. I have similar set up with a cooler and turn one pump...

I finally got my car out last night and it's still doing it. I forgot about it since I haven't really been driving it much. I still need to call turn one.

I'm running a Turn One pump with a Blaine cooler and I'm also having a groan when stopped/near stopped. It doesn't seem to do it when moving so I haven't worried about it.

[JimMueller]

I think I've either forgotten about it or I can no longer hear it. I'll try to pay closer attention.

[landstuhltaylor]

Stock pump with a 10% underdrive and a Blaine cooler. As long as it's bled properly it never makes noise even with the 335 A7s up front.

[JimMueller]

I can no longer hear it, but it is also louder in the cabin since the motor was rebuilt. I don't know whether the cabin noise is masking the groaning, or if the groan was eliminated when the power steering system was re-assembled. It's still a little stiff to turn the wheels at very low speeds.