Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2008 Nissan Titan Towing a Keystone Passport Trailer

Updated 04/04/2011 | Published 03/31/2011

Question:

I presently own a 2008 Nissan Titan XE without the towing package. A couple of years after purchasing the truck, we decided to purchase a 31 Keystone Passport Ultralight. Ive been making various modifications to my truck to pull this trailer and am considering purchasing a large transmission cooler. Though it already has a smaller one, I had a transmission installer tell me that I should consider installing a larger one. My maximum towing on this truck cannot NOT exceed 6500#, of which, my gross has usually been less than 5300#. Any suggestions on which cooler I should consider putting on this truck? I already have also installed a deeper transmission pan which allows me to run about 3.5 more quarts of fluid. Your suggestions would be much appreciated.

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

Adding a larger transmission cooler to your 2008 Nissa Titan to help keep the fluid in the optimum temperature range while towing is a good idea. Ideally you want the transmission fluid to be between 160 and 200 degrees for the best operation and longest life from the transmission.

With the gross weight at 5,300 pounds, the Derale Transmission Cooler, # D13503, that you have referenced would be a good choice. This cooler is a class II rated for up to 6,000 pounds gross trailer weight. The overall dimensions of the cooler are: 11 inches wide, 8-3/4 inches tall, and 7/8 inches deep. The dimensions are important when finding the best place to mount the cooler.

I have included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers along with a video showing a typical installation for reference.

expert reply by: Michael H