Mounting The Derale Transmission Cooler # D13504 in 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L

Question:

I found the Derale 13504 on your website after using your site to search for a transmission cooler for my 03 Tahoe with the 5.3L. The site says it will fit, but I went and looked at the grill and there is a metal bracket in front of the radiator that looks like it will interfere with mounting given the dimensions of the cooler as 12x11x5/8. Would you please advise on the installment of this cooler on my Tahoe before I order it? Thanks,

asked by: Brian H

Expert Reply:

The item you selected, Derale Transmission Cooler # D13504, is a fit for your 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe but you would need to find a mounting location. With such a large cooler you may have to find a different location other then behind the front grille.

Mounting the transmission cooler behind the grille, in front of the AC core is the most ideal and efficient cooling location to mount it,. The other locations would be between condenser and radiator, and between the radiator and engine.

Since there is a bracket that may interfere with mounting the # D13504 Cooler, I would recommend using a smaller size cooler to mount behind the grille like the Derale Transmission Cooler, part # D13502. You will still get great cooling efficiency with this cooler since it will be behind the grille, but this cooler is just slightly smaller in size.

In addition to the transmission cooler, you will need to use Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings, part # D13018, to install on your 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe.

I have linked an FAQ on transmission coolers.