So, I need to add a power steering cooler to my BMW. I found a great one on Amazon, but once it arrived, I realized the hose inlet diameter is smaller than my existing lines. Probably should have read the specs, was more concerned with where it was going to fit. I can of course add in some adaptors, but is this going to cause problems? I'm of course installing it on the low pressure/return side of the system between the reservoir and the pump.
Don't think it would be a good idea IMO. Besides restricting flow and possibly starving the pump, you would also be (in theory) compressing the fluid when it drops down in size, creating more heat.
I don't think it would cause a problem. The fluid will squeeze through fine, it's under practically no pressure. It returns to the reservoir, the pump won't starve until that runs dry.
I don't think it would cause any problems. Oh and fluid is basically incompressible. THAT'S WHY WE USE IT FOR BRAKES AND OTHER HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS.
I would put the cooler in the return line from the steering rack to the reservoir, not between the reservoir and pump. You don't want any restrictions before the pump.
Thanks for all the advise! Putting it in the other return line makes sense. I will look at how to make that work. After noticing the small inlet size, I looked around to see if I just randomly found a smaller sized unit, but most all of the coolers are the same size with 3/8 inch inlets. The tubing size on my BMW is closer to 5/8.
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