Transmission Cooler Recommendation for 2006 Chevy Silverado 1500 with 5.3 liter V8

Updated 10/09/2018 | Published 10/08/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(868)

$120.43

Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM

(269)

$16.69

Question:

Recently towed about 4500lbs recently with my 2006 5.3 Silverado. On relatively flat and smaller hills my transmission gauge was anywhere 165-185. However going up big hills it would spike at 202 and then take about 10 minutes to back into the lower 190 range. This was the first time I ever towed anything and ran 3rd geat 1:1 direct drive 90 trip. Now I do realize 202 isnt too much over the magic 200 number but staying at that temp for a little bit of time concerns me especially if i go on other trips with more hills. I have a factory tow package cooler installed now which looks small compared to your largest recommended one for my vehicle. My question is since I already have a cooler can I hook up the derale 13503 or 13504 using existing lines and would you recommend upgrading?

asked by: Matt D

Expert Reply:

You currently are in a pretty safe zone for your transmission temperature. But if you wanted to maximize the life of your transmission going with a supplemental cooler like the Derale part # D13504 would be a great option. You'll want to install this cooler after your factory cooler and you'll get the best cooling capabilities. For an adapter fitting to make the process easier you'd want the part # D13035. You'll use your existing lines plus the rubber lines that come with the cooler kit.

expert reply by: Jameson C