Can the Derale Stacked-Plate Transmission Cooler Kit Be Mounted in Any Direction or Orientation

Question:

Does it make any difference if you mount the in/out lines vertical, horizontal, up or down. I am considering using this on a 2003 5.3 Z engine Chevy suburban. I do not want to place a cooler behind the radiator or between AC coil and the radiator. Do I need the AN type.

asked by: Oscar M

Expert Reply:

The inlet and outlet on transmission coolers can be oriented in any direction you like and because the cooler is a flow through device you can use either port as the inlet or outlet, whichever makes the installation easier and uses the least amount of hose. The one thing you want to be sure of, is that the cooler is mounted so that most air flows through it, usually in the same orientation as your radiator.

The best installation location is as far forward as possible in front of the radiator, ac condenser and any other coolers that may be installed on your Suburban.

AN fittings are not required and most people installing a transmission cooler for towing applications do not use them. AN fittings are a great choice for vehicles like race cars, show cars or street strip cars that will be worked on and removal may be required more often.

I posted a drawing showing how the installation is completed and the best location for a transmission cooler. We also have a detailed installation video that should be helpful, see links.

If you wanted to go with a transmission cooler with standard push on fittings the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit, # D13504, would be a great choice. You will also need a set of the Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM, # D13018, to complete the installation on your 2003 Suburban with 5.3L engine.

expert reply by: Robert G