Can You Bypass The Factory Transmission Cooler on a 2011 Chevy Silverado
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Question:
Hi, My 2011 Suburban has a stock trans cooler built into the radiator. My question is when I install a seperate transmission cooler should I bypass the one built into the radiator. My friend says I should because if the radiator ever leaks into the tansmission fluid it could be disasterous. Thanks,
asked by: B. M
Expert Reply:
There is always a chance of the transmission lines leaking into the radiator creating disaster on any vehicle that uses this method for cooling the vehicle's transmission fluid. I would not bypass the radiator when installing a new transmission cooler. Our transmission coolers are supplemental, meaning they are designed to aid the factory cooling system. Almost every vehicle nowadays has the transmission lines ran through the radiator for cooling and the chance of them leaking into the radiator is minimal.
For a transmission cooler on your 2011 Chevy Suburban I recommend using the Derale Series 7000 Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Hose Barb Inlets part # D13105 as this is one of the largest plate and fin coolers we have for your vehicle. You will also want to use the Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM part # D13035 for a seamless installation. As long as you have 16-5/8" wide x 12-5/8" tall x 3/4" deep in front of your radiator behind your grill this cooler will work well for you.
If you choose to bypass the factory transmission cooler, I recommend using the Derale Atomic-Cool Remote Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Fan part # D15950 as this cooler will provide your transmission fluid with maximum cooling efficiency no matter the airflow or ambient air temperature.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 7000 Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Hose Barb Inlets - Class IV - Standard
- Transmission Coolers
- Tube-Fin Cooler
- Full-Size Truck
- SUV
- Standard Mount
- 16-5/8W x 12-5/8T x 3/4D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
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