CSF Porsche 911 / 930 Turbo OEM+/High-Performance Engine Oil Cooler

CSF Porsche 911 / 930 Turbo OEM+/High-Performance Engine Oil Cooler represents a significant evolution in thermal management for the engines of the iconic Porsche 911 and 930 Turbo. After more than two years of rigorous development and four prototypes, this oil cooling system made its global debut at the Rennsport Reunion 2023, receiving an enthusiastic response from both the enthusiast community and motorsport professionals.

Air-cooled boxer engines—particularly the classic flat-six—have historically faced challenges related to the efficiency and durability of their oil cooling systems. While the original design was effective in its time, it has shown limitations and wear over the years, compounded by the increasing difficulty of sourcing original replacement units in good condition. Recognising this critical need within the Porsche community, CSF set out to design a product that maintains fidelity to the original design while incorporating modern technical improvements to deliver superior performance and long-term reliability.

For the development of this oil cooler, CSF worked closely with highly respected specialists in the building and restoration of classic Porsche engines, including the team at SV Auto. Their deep knowledge and experience provided invaluable insight, helping to refine both the engineering and manufacturing of the product. In addition, Brian Day—R&D partner and CSF distributor at Euro Parts West—played a key role in defining and validating the final design.

Product Details

Design and Engineering

The original Behr oil cooler, designed in the 1960s, now commonly shows clear signs of ageing. While ultrasonic cleaning and refurbishment are possible, these processes can compromise the integrity of the core, leading to leaks due to material fragility and corrosion. Furthermore, the OEM cast base plate that mounts to the engine block can warp or develop porosity over time, negatively affecting sealing and resulting in oil leaks.

Beyond the issues associated with original units, CSF has also received direct reports of premature leaks in newly purchased oil coolers supplied through the “Porsche Classic” catalogue. Although these units are new, they do not match the quality or durability of the original Behr coolers. In response, CSF has developed a modern OEM+ solution that addresses these shortcomings, combining an authentic original-style design with contemporary materials and manufacturing techniques to ensure superior performance and reliability.

Attention to Detail

CSF’s primary objective was to recreate the original oil cooler with a modern interpretation that enhances both functionality and reliability. This involved an extensive research and development process, with collaboration from Brian Day proving essential in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the 911 oil cooling system. This in-depth knowledge enabled the design of a cooler compatible with a wide range of models, ensuring precise fitment and optimal performance.

Improving a design begins with a comprehensive understanding of the system. Every component of the cooler was meticulously analysed, from the strength of the core to potential restrictions in oil flow.

The use of 3D scanning of 911/930 engine blocks and OEM oil coolers allowed CSF to ensure optimal fitment and identify areas for improvement. Installation and performance testing were carried out on multiple 911/930 engines at SV Auto’s facilities, providing accurate and reliable data.

New High-Performance Core

CSF oil coolers incorporate a modern tube-and-fin core specifically engineered for this application. This core delivers improved flow, reduced pressure drop, and increased durability compared to the original design. In addition, support bars have been added between the tubes to increase burst pressure, which has been tested to withstand up to 290 psi (20 bar) without leakage.