Grex sandwichplate flow direction?

[KLA33E]

Grex sandwichplate flow direction?

Hi! I'm in the progress of installing an oil cooler in my R33. It's a Grex/Greddy oil cooler kit which includes everything you need for Installing, all good. The question is I'm not sure which port on the thermostat that is inlet an which is outlet? (look at picture) 

BTW will the Grex thermostat allow any oil through the oil cooler when the Engine is still cold? or do I have to wait until it opens to be able to top up the oil level?

Thanks in advance!

[KiwiRS4T]

Most if not all oil thermostats do not shut off the flow completely but allow a small amount of circulation. You should be able to confirm this by blowing through it (as it should be in the closed position now).

[BlackBox]

I have also have a grex thermostatic cooler plate. I have followed this diagram by blowing in it but it seems that it still allows all flow to go through the cooler, not just a small amount

[KLA33E]

It probably is like you say that it allows a bit of oil to pass at all times.

Regarding which port is flow and which is return I'm swaying towards the left port in the Picture, you can see the spring on the right hand side so the piston should move that way no?

My cooler core is mounted with the connections to the leftside. I want the oil to flow through to the bottom of the cooler first then continue to rise upwards rather than the other way around for improved cooling im thinking... 

Maybe it's worth mentioning I don't use a relocation kit, just 2 hoses from the sandwhich directly to the oil cooler. 

[V28VX37]

From memory, (cooled) oil flows back into the engine through the middle of the sandwich plate.

And yes there's always some flow to the cooler even when cold, how much depends on the design of the sandwich plate and the thermostat rating. Anecdotally a Mocal – which I have but wouldn't recommend – flows more than the Grex/Greddy unit, cold. Check out this thread, including plaything's comments: https://www.sau.com.au/forums/topic/462362-oil-cooler-too-eager-faulty-thermostat-or-incorrect-temp-sensor-location/?page=2 

There may be something useful in my oil cooler installation DIY thread too: https://www.sau.com.au/forums/topic/462142-r34-gtt-oil-cooler-installation/

 

Put the core in the guard if you can, rather than inline with the radiator. Ports should be to the side or up, not down, to avoid trapping air in there.