Lynn,
There's a third possibility that I hadn't considered until I looked at the cooler again tonight after work. It is evident that the cooler was pressurized to the point that the tank warped causing the divider to pull away from the core (not welded where it meets the core). This allowed the oil to go in and right back out again. The tubes look fine, but the center of both tanks where there is no support, is ballooned outward.
I'm debating on whether to send it back to Fluidyne for inspection & repair, or to bite the bullet and order a new one (assuming that this size is still available). This one is definitely repairable, but not sure I'd feel comfortable flying behind it afterwards.
I also need to ask Gary what the working pressure is for the Fluidyne coolers. I'm wondering if I may have damaged this cooler with 90 psi oil pressure without realizing it?
Mark
On Mon, Dec 14, 2009 at 6:58 PM, Lynn Hanover <lehanover@gmail.com> wrote:
Stephen,
I called Fluidyne today and spoke with Gary, the owner. While the cooler is not under warranty, they are willing to look at it and determine if it can be repaired. I'll send it off and see what they say.
Mark
There should be evidence of a TIG bead half way around the end tank near the center. Either its there or it isn't. If not and both fittings are in the same end, it is the problem.......
Lynn E. Hanover
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