It depends on whether you decide to retain the existing oil cooler, (which is really a heat exchanger) or go just for the external cooler. http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?2138601-External-Oil-Cooler-DIY-for-MK3-VR6-s-w-Earl-s-parts
It no longer has an interaction with the cooler does it? You can get stainless crack pipes that don't have a takeoff for external oil cooler applications.
ha yea i would definitely say, if you are going to remove the oil cooler hose attached to the crack pipe. get a new pipe too, it will probably crumble as soon as you look at it!
Im pretty certain we're def coming along, just have to make sure that its not the week we're going for a week away but im sure thats the first week of august.
I hear you might be coming to harewood house, I should think i will be too, look forward to seeing yours in person, will probably put mine to shame up close lol