CSF BMW S54 Swap E36 Race-Spec Dual-Pass Oil Cooler

The BMW S54 engine is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and revered powerplants in the marque’s history. Renowned for its exceptional power delivery, perfect balance, and distinctive sound, the S54 continues to captivate enthusiasts who appreciate naturally aspirated performance over modern turbocharged alternatives. While it may not match the outright power figures of contemporary turbo inline-6 engines, the S54’s linear throttle response and mechanical purity have made it a sought-after choice, particularly for those performing engine swaps in the E36 chassis.

Despite the relative ease of fitting the S54 into an E36, integrating this engine swap presents significant challenges, especially concerning the vehicle’s cooling system. Recognizing these difficulties, CSF has developed a comprehensive cooling solution tailored specifically for the S54 swap in the E36 chassis: the CSF BMW S54 Swap Race-Spec Dual-Pass Oil Cooler.

Product Details

Design & Engineering

CSF brings decades of expertise in high-performance BMW cooling systems to the design of this specialized oil cooler. Leveraging extensive experience with both the E36 and E46 platforms, CSF engineered a product that addresses the unique requirements of the S54 swap community, delivering reliable and effective cooling under demanding conditions.

Anyone familiar with the E46 M3 understands how rapidly oil temperatures can escalate during spirited driving or track use. To combat this, CSF previously developed the Dual Pass Race Spec Oil Cooler (CSF #8032) in collaboration with Rogue Engineering. This cooler has become the benchmark solution for E46 M3 owners and is compatible with S54 swaps when paired with the appropriate radiator. However, due to chassis differences, the #8032 cooler does not allow retention of factory air conditioning lines in the E36 chassis.

The newly introduced CSF S54 Swap Race Spec Oil Cooler (#8240) addresses this limitation by featuring a shorter right-hand side design, enabling the use of OEM A/C line routing. Despite its slightly reduced size compared to the #8032, the #8240 maintains comparable cooling performance through its dual-pass design, incorporating 8 rows of cooling fins and utilizing a turbulated heavy-duty bar and plate construction for maximum heat dissipation and durability.

Both the #8240 and #8032 oil coolers utilize the original S54 OEM oil line connections, ensuring straightforward installation and compatibility. For customers seeking to implement custom oil line setups, CSF also offers a dedicated fitting adapter kit with -10 AN connections (CSF #8241), facilitating flexible and professional-grade plumbing options.

Fitting Adapters

The CSF #8241 fitting adapter kit is designed to accommodate -10 AN oil lines, a popular upgrade among engine swap enthusiasts for enhanced durability and leak resistance. This adapter simplifies the installation process, providing installers and customers with versatile options to tailor the oil cooler plumbing to their specific requirements without compromising reliability.

⚠ Fitment Note

S54 Oil Cooler Lines:

CSF recommends utilizing the Europe Spec E36 M3 oil cooler lines when performing S54 swaps to ensure optimal fitment and performance. While the OEM S54 oil cooler lines can be employed, they may require minor bending and adjustments to achieve proper installation within the E36 chassis. The CSF #8241 adapter fitting kit bracket is also compatible with securing the OEM S54 oil cooler lines, providing additional installation flexibility and security.

• E46 M3 Oil Cooler Lines (Pipe) – BMW PN: 17222283209
• E36 Euro Spec Oil Cooler Lines (Pipe) – BMW PN: 17212227235

Features

• Innovative Top/Bottom Dual-Pass Design Maximizing Surface Area and Oil Flow Efficiency
• Fully TIG-Welded Extruded End Tank Construction for Enhanced Structural Integrity and Longevity
• Turbulated Heavy-Duty Bar and Plate Design Ensuring Superior Heat Transfer and Durability Under High Stress
• Eight Rows of High-Density Multi-Louvered Fin Pitch for Maximum Cooling Capacity
• Engineered Specifically to Complement CSF’s All-Aluminum S54 Swap Radiator (CSF #7211)
• Finished in Motorsport Silver for Professional Appearance and Corrosion Resistance
• Compatible with Factory Oil-Line Connections to Simplify Installation
• Designed for S54 Swap Vehicles Retaining Air Conditioning Systems
• For S54 Swap Vehicles Without Air Conditioning, Refer to CSF #8032 Oil

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all products sold by R44 Performance Limited are designated RACE ONLY and are solely for competition or off-road use limited to racing formally sanctioned by a recognized racing organization. Any other use, including recreational off-road use, may violate local, state, and Federal laws. R44 Performance Limited does not implicitly or explicitly confirm the legality of using any products it sells on public roads; that is entirely the responsibility of the consumer.

It is the responsibility of the customer to check with all federal, state local and environmental laws before ordering and installing a product. R44 Performance Limited is not responsible for any fees, fines or costs that a customer may incur as a result of failing to check with federal, state, local or environmental laws before ordering and installing a product.

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