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Is Transmission Cooler Required for 2001 Toyota Tundra Towing 5256-Lb Travel Trailer  

Updated 04/04/2016 | Published 03/31/2016

Question:

Im concerned about my 2001 Tundra Access Cab Limited 4X4 transmission overheating when towing a 5256 GVWR travel trailer. I purchased the truck new and it has a towing package. There is a 6inch wide x 10inch tall transmission cooler installed in front of the radiator and a/c condenser that was factory installed. Should this be adequate? Is there a way to install a transmission temperature gauge, and if so what is the expected normal and maximum temperatures?

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Expert Reply:

Since your Tundra is equipped with the tow package and has a dedicated transmission cooler, so long as you stay within the truck's rated towing capacity you should be fine.

If you have the physical space available for a larger cooler and want to add some safety margin, you could replace the existing cooler with a larger and more efficient one. The highest-efficiency cooler we offer for your Tundra is the Derale # D13503 which is a Class III cooler that measures 11 x 8-3/4.

You also have the option of adding another cooler to the vehicle, such as a frame-rail-mount type like # D13262. This would work in tandem with the OEM cooler.

Typically a transmission cooler will reduce operating temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees. The usual range of operating temperatures for a transmission is generally 180-190 F. We do not offer a stand-alone temperature gauge for your truck but you might instead use a hand-held type thermometer that will allow you to check the transmission temps before and after your new cooler. It would also allow you to do so while you're towing.

expert reply by:
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Adam R

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