Recommended Transmission Cooler for a 2013 Chevy Tahoe
Question:
I have a 2013 Chevy Tahoe that does NOT have the factory aux transmission cooler and I would like to add a cooler as I intend to tow a heavier load starting next spring. I know Ill need the cooler as I currently tow a small popup camper that is 3000 and can see around 200 for the transmissions temps on short ~30 miles trips. First, can you recommend a cooler that will keep my temps while towing lower, but will not take them too low to effect winter warmup we live in Wisconsin? Also, is there an install kit or install method for vehicles that do not have the factory cooler?
asked by: Michael
Expert Reply:
I have the perfect transmission cooler option for you. Generally speaking, the best transmission cooler to use would be the largest one you have available space for. The best place to install a transmission cooler is in front of the radiator/condenser behind the grill on your 2013 Chevy Tahoe.
I recommend using the Derale 25-Row, High-Performance, Stacked-Plate Cooler part # D52508 because the plate and fin technology incorporated into this transmission cooler is far more efficient than the standard tube and fin design. As long as you have 13" wide x 9-5/16" tall x 2" deep of space in front of your radiator/condenser behind your grill then this cooler will work well for you.
Since you live in an environment with cold temperatures, installing a transmission cooler on your vehicle can lengthen the amount of time it will take your vehicle to heat the transmission fluid to optimal operating temperature. To help speed this process up you will want to use the Derale Fluid Control Thermostat Kit part # D15719. At temperatures below 180 degrees, an inner valve opens, allowing 90 percent of the oil to bypass the cooler, thus heating faster. To install this bypass you will also want the Mounting Bracket Kit for Derale Fluid Control Thermostats part # D25793.
In order to install this transmission cooler on your vehicle you will need a few items:
Mounting Brackets: Bracket Kit for Derale High Performance Stacked-Plate Coolers part # D50020 (1)
Adapter Fittings: Derale -10 AN Female Swivel x 1/2" Barb Hose Fittings part # D98203 (2)
Transmission Lines: Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Engine Applications part # D15799 (1)
Hose Clamps: Derale Stainless Steel Hose Clamps part # D13008 (1)
I have attached a diagram that will show you how the transmission lines need to be ran on your vehicle for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Derale Stainless Steel Hose Clamps (4 Piece)
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Hose Clamps
- Derale
more information >
Derale Fluid Control Thermostat Kit w/ 1/2" NPT Ports
- Accessories and Parts
- Engine Oil Coolers
- Thermostat
- 1/2 Inch NPT Ports
- Derale
more information >
Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Engine - 1/2" Inner Diameter - 25' Long
- Accessories and Parts
- Engine Oil Coolers
- Hoses
- 1/2 Inch Inner Diameter
- 25 Feet Long
- Derale
more information >
Mounting Bracket Kit for Derale Fluid Control Thermostats
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Mounting Hardware
- Brackets
- Derale
more information >
Bracket Kit for Derale High Performance Stacked-Plate Coolers
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Mounting Hardware
- Brackets
- Derale
more information >
Derale -10 AN Female Swivel x 1/2" Barb Hose Fitting
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Fittings
- -10 AN x 1/2 Hose Barb
- Derale
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale 25-Row, High-Performance, Stacked-Plate Cooler with -8 AN Fittings - Class V
- Transmission Coolers
- Stacked-Plate Cooler
- Heavy-Duty Truck
- Standard Mount
- 13W x 9-5/16T x 2D Inch
- With - 8 AN Inlets
- Derale
more information >
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