Recommendation for a Transmission Cooler for Maximum Towing Capacity on a 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer

Updated 09/15/2010 | Published 09/14/2010

Products Featured in This Question

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

(876)

$120.43

Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM

(46)

$17.42

Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM

(274)

$16.69

Loctite Thread Sealant PST Stick - 0.67-Oz Stick

(1)

$16.20

Question:

I have a 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer that I used to pull a trailer at max rated GVW. My transmission cooler line fittings at the radiator are leaking and the mechanic told me I will have to replace the radiator. Can I bypass the cooler in the radiator and use D13504 as the only cooler?

asked by: Walter W

Expert Reply:

The Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient , item # D13504, will work on your 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. Along with this cooler you will need the Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM , item # D13018, if your TrailBlazer has the 6.0 Liter engine or the Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM , item # D13035, if your engine is the 4.2 or 5.3 liter.

I cannot recommend completely replacing the factory transmission cooler on your vehicle. Your best option would be to repair the leaking cooler line fittings, or replace the radiator as your mechanic has suggested, and then add the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit, item # D13504, with the proper fittings. This will allow you to tow to the maximum capacity of the vehicle and not damage the transmission from over heated transmission fluid.

If you find that the transmission line fittings are leaking at the threads going into the radiator on the model with the 6.0 liter model, you could try to repair the leak by using some Loctite Thread Sealant PST Stick - 0.67-Oz Stick, item # LT37615, when installing the fittings for the # D13504 transmission cooler. I would not recommend thread sealed tape for this repair as it can get into the transmission and possibly cause damage.

If your vehicle has the Snap in tube fittings like item # 13035, you may be able to repair the leak by installing a new o-ring in the radiator fitting rather than replacing the radiator.