Larger Transmission Cooler Recommendation to Replace Small One Where Fluid Still Gets Hot

Question:

HI, I tow a 2000-lb trailer with my 2011 V6 4x4 Toyota Rav4 in the mountains in California. I got this transmission cooler D13611 On my first trip with my trailer, my Rav4 had no issue on the grades up to the sierra crest hwy 120. However, the weather was overcast and cool that trip. My trip last weekend the weather was hotter and the AT Oil Temp overheated on a steep, long grade. I had to park the car overnight and the next day, it was fine. Do I need a larger tranny cooler or do you have any other recommendations. Thanks

asked by: Ross

Expert Reply:

The transmission cooler part # D13611 that you referenced is a pretty small cooler. Since you are towing on steeper grades a larger cooler would be your best option.

If you can fit the part # D13503 instead of what you currently have this would be a much better option. This cooler measures 11" Wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep. Basically the larger the cooler the more efficient it will be at cooling the fluid. Since you already have the hard part done of installing a cooler all you would need to do is swap this cooler in using the same lines.

expert reply by: Jameson C