Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2003 GMC Sierra 4x4 1500

Updated 09/09/2011 | Published 09/08/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Transmission Pan Cooler for GM 700R4 and 4L60E

(28)

$228.45

Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit - Class IV - Economy

(114)

$78.19

Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM

(46)

$17.16

Question:

I recently Purchased a Derale D14204 cooling pan for my 2003 GMC sierra 4x4 1500 series,with a 4L60E m-30 transmission.Ive been told it may not fit.I vieved the pan and measured the distance down on old versus the new,looks as though it may fit,although the exhaust is also within an inch or so,Also will I need an extension on the filter,any info. will be appreciated as i need get this done soon.Thanks

asked by: Kenneth D

Expert Reply:

I can tell you that the Derale Transmission Cooler Pan, # D14204, fits most 1982-1999 model 4L60Es transmissions. Some models may require a smaller transmission filter to get it to fit. It will not fit on all models. The overall depth of the pan is 3-5/8 inches and the distance to the the 5/8 inch diameter cooling tubes is 2-1/2 inches from the top of the pan.

The exhaust has been determined to be a possible hindrance of installing this pan on models newer than 1999. If there were no components near by, the pan would fit. But since the exhaust is within an inch, the safer bet would be that it will not fit.

Instead, I would go with a standard transmission cooler like # D12904. A large cooler will provide a lot of supplemental cooling if mounting in front of the radiator. We may also need fitting # D13018. I have included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H