Car is an '86 GTi (8v, RD engine code) with 180-190K (standard "odo broke at
150-ish K" story).I made a second attempt today at replacing the oil cooler:flange and flange:block gaskets while doing an oil change, to correct some rather messy oil leaks that are going on (the oil pan, crankshaft and cam cover gaskets have already been replaced in the past 4-5 months or so) . But once again I got skunked on the nut holding the oil cooler up onto the flange! When I bought the filter and washer a few weeks ago at the local watercooled shop in preperation for this second attemp, I asked about this nut specifically and was told it was 24mm, so I went out and bought the appropriate socket.
Well, no dice.. 24mm is too small. I happened to find a 30mm socket in my buddy's garage, but it was too big - so I'm guessing a 26 or 28mm is actually the correct size. Has anyone else done this repair and know the correct size socket for this nut for sure? It turns out I had the wrong filter too (or at least a different one.. Mahle 264 instead of the C47 I've always been given before). As long as I'm asking, does anyone know if this filter difference matters (the threading and outer shape/size are are the same, but the innards are a noticably different style)?
I'd really like to get these leaks fixed and instead of waiting another couple of months 'til the next full change, am instead considering just pulling off the old filter I had to put back on, doing the gaskets and then adding a quart of oil. Any hints/tips from personal experience regarding this reapir are of course welcome.
If I've blatently forgotten some important detail, please feel free to rip me publically and I'll snidely respond with additional information. (It is usenet, I might as well be prepared for the possibility...)