Transmission Cooler Recommendations for a 1998 Chevrolet Silverado 4X4 5.7L

Updated 06/07/2011 | Published 06/03/2011

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

(876)

$96.60

Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ NPT Inlets - Class I -Extra Efficient

(95)

$112.40

Question:

Which transmission cooler would I need for a 1998 Chevrolet Silverado 4X4 5.7 liter 350 Motor?

asked by: Carlos J

Expert Reply:

To determine what kind of transmission cooler you will need depends on how much weight you will be towing and where you will be towing. Also, you will want to check how much room you have in front of the radiator to be able to install the transmission cooler.

If you will be towing a light load, less than 2000lbs, in flat driving conditions, your 1998 Chevrolet Silverado 4x4 5.7L will do fine with a class I rated cooler. If you will be towing more than a 2000lb load through some hills, I would use a class II or class III cooler. If you are towing a heavy load like above 6000lbs, and up to 12000lbs, I would recommend the class IV rated cooler.

The class I cooler you can use would be the Derale Series 9000 cooler # D13611. It measures 11 inches wide x 3-7/8 inches tall x 1-1/4 inches deep.

A class III cooler does not cost much more than a class II, so I would recommend the Derale cooler, part # D13503. This cooler measures 11 inches wide x 8-3/4 inches tall x 7/8 inch deep.

The larger class IV cooler you would need is the Derale cooler, part # D13504. It measures 11 inches wide x 12 inches tall x 7/8 inch deep.

The other part you will need to install the transmission cooler to your 1998 Chevrolet Silverado is the Derale radiator adapter fitting, part # D13018. This adapter will allow you to connect the cooler to the radiator without cutting or flaring the lines.

I am including a link to a FAQ page on transmission coolers. This page will talk about the different types of coolers and the best locations to install the cooler.