Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2009 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab with 4.8 Liter Engine
Updated 03/24/2011 | Published 03/21/2011
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2009 Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab with a 4.8L v8. I tow a heavy travel trailer, 6200lbs GVWR, and the transmission gets up to about 250 Degrees sometimes. I dont know if the truck has a transmission cooler or not. My question is do I need a transmission cooler and how hot is too hot for the transmission? Do you have a recomendation for a cooler if I need one? Thanks
asked by: Terry W
Expert Reply:
The ideal operating temperature for transmission fluid is between 160 to 200 degrees. Your 2009 Chevy Silverado does have a factory transmission cooler, but factory coolers are often inadequate for towing. Since your fluid is reaching 250 degrees, you would benefit greatly from a transmission cooler.
For your 2009 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 4.8 liter engine, I recommend the Derale Transmission Cooler, # D13503. This is a class III cooler rated for up to 6,000 pounds gross trailer weight. Combined with your factory cooler, the Derale cooler will provide more than enough cooling for your transmission fluid. You will also need Hose Fitting, # D13035 to complete installation.
I have included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers as well as a link to a video showing a typical installation for reference.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Mid-Size Truck
- SUV
- Van
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 7-1/4T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Shop: Transmission Cooler
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: 2023 Forest Rive R-Pod 192 Storage Cover Recommendation
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Frequently Asked Questions About Transmission Coolers
- Q&A: Recommended Brake Controller That Does Not Use A Squeeze Style Manual Override
- Q&A: What do the Class Ratings Mean on the Transmission Cooler Pages
- Q&A: Recommended Brake Controller for a 2021 Toyota 4Runner w/a Plug In Harness
- Q&A: Transmission Cooler For 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Class IV and V Transmission Coolers
- Article: Which Sway Control Hitch is Right For Your Trailer?
- Article: Transmission Cooler
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: Performance Chips and Modules
- Article: Breakaway Kit Installation for Single and Dual Brake Axle Trailers