[QUOTE=flaps10;466254]I installed the taller oil cooler (heat exchanger technically) in my S model when I had my engine apart. I see no reason why it wouldn't fit a non S car and could likely be done without even having to remove the intake manifold (keep in mind, I only own an S and don't know how different the intake manifolds are).[QUOTE]
so, the 986 Boxster S oil cooler is the same as the one used on all 996 cars. also the same as the one used on base 997.1 cars. the 997.1 S model has a different part number - it appears to be a direct fit to the m96/97 block as well as taller ie, bigger volume) - is this the oil cooler you fit on your car? if so this is a very cool mod, and confirms that there is space under our intake manifold for it to fit (the 986 intake manifold isn't as tall as the other cars).
this got me searching and I found this ...
997 GT3 Water/Oil Cooler/Heat Exchanger on a M96/97 - Rennlist Discussion Forums
it appears that the gt3 oil cooler is the same height as the 997.1 S oil cooler, but that the adaptor would add an inch or two to the overall height. what's your take on this fitting?
to the original question, I think fitting a taller 986 S/996 oil cooler on base 986 cars is a standard mod done by spec racers all the time.