Aftermarket Transmission Cooler Installation for Mitsubishi Vehicles

Question:

I had heard or read somewhere, I cant remember where, that the Mitsubushi OEM transmission cooler had a valve or something that in cold weather would close or reduce the fluid flow to allow the transmission to get up to temperature faster. Do you know if this is the case or is this is a bunch of bologna? And if so, do your have this feature?

asked by: John H

Expert Reply:

It would not surprise me if Mitsubushi OEM transmissions had a function that stopped the flow of transmission fluid out of the transmission when the transmission is cold. I do not believe that this option would be installed outside of the transmission, because there would need to be a bypass hose and valves in the transmission output and return lines, causing a complicated installation at the factory.

The Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit, item # D13611, does not have a option for stopping the flow of transmission fluid when the vehicle is cold. Basically transmission fluid cannot be cooled too much. The only precaution that could be taken is to warm the engine a bit on very cold days so that the transmission will perform better after the vehicle has sat overnight.

You will need to check with the vehicle manufacturer and install the cooler inline with the transmission cooler return line and make sure that it is installed after, on the output side, and before, on the return side, any addition that would close or reduce transmission fluid flow. Any valve that would stop or reduce transmission fluid flow would not affect the performance of a aftermarket transmission cooler, as it is a flow through device.

We have information on transmission coolers and a video installation for you to review, see links.

expert reply by: Bob G