Transmission and Oil Cooler, Rear Helper Springs, and Towing Mirrors for a 2001 Ford E-350

Updated 12/30/2015 | Published 12/29/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(874)

$96.46

Longview Custom Towing Mirrors - Slip On - Driver and Passenger Side

(6741)

$81.83

Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for Ford and Lincoln

(13)

$15.82

Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler with Multiple Threads

(17)

$244.37

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6610)

$398.07

Question:

I have a 2001 Ford E350 5.4L V8 15 passenger van with 140000 miles on it that I want to use it to tow a 5x8 - 6x12 enclosed motorcycle trailer and want to add a trans cooler and what ever else you suggest to improve the towing ability and longevity of this vehicle. Thanks for your help. My budget for the upgrades is 1000.00 incl install.

asked by: Sean M

Expert Reply:

I have some excellent recommendations that will not only help your 2001 Ford E-350 van last a long time but will also keep you under budget.

First, instead of just a transmission cooler, I recommend a combination engine oil and transmission fluid cooler # D15902. This will help both the transmission and engine run cooler which will in turn help get the longest life out of them. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you.

For the transmission cooler part of this combination cooler I also recommend a special fitting so you won't have to cut and flare the transmission lines. Use kit # D13014 for 1/4" or 3/8" NPT trans-line type fittings, or use kit # D13024 for 1/2"-20 partial thread fittings.

The core of this cooler is 17" wide x 12-1/2" tall x 3/4" deep so you can check under the hood ahead of time to see if there is space for this size cooler.

With the front end taken care of I also recommend taking care of the back end. Adding some helper springs # TFER35092B will help reduce stress on the stock suspension so it lasts longer. It will also improve ride quality and reduce body roll.

And you're going to want to see that trailer better so a set of custom towing mirrors, # CTM2500, which will fit if the van has powered but non-heated mirrors like in the video I have linked for you.