Are Transmission Engine Oil and Power Steering Coolers Needed For Towing with a 2007 Honda Pilot

Updated 02/14/2012 | Published 02/12/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(874)

$96.46

Derale Single-Hose Transmission Cooler Installation Kit w/ 11/32" Inner Diameter Hose

(5)

$17.47

Derale 2-Pass Tube-Fin Power Steering Cooler - 12-5/8" Wide

(12)

$51.79

Question:

Honda reccomends tranny, oil and power steering coolers to get to the 4500/5500 # limits. I have a 1200 # boat motor and trailer package to go fishing on weekends with my wife. No trips longer than 100 miles one way, light tacle and lunch along. Do I really need all of the coolers?

asked by: Andy

Expert Reply:

Since the manufacturer recommends these aftermarket additions for your Pilot, we cannot suggest differently. The thing to remember is that if you do add these items and a warranty issue comes up, you have shown that you took the proper steps to ensure that your vehicle would perform properly so warranty service should not be a question.

Another thing to consider is that heat is the enemy of your engine, transmission, and power steering. Using a cooler will dissipate more heat and prolong the life of all 3 components.

The decision is up to you, I usually tend to err on the side of caution, so I would recommend following the manufacturer guidelines.

I will list the specific parts that I would use for a 2007 Pilot if I decided to go ahead and install all 3 coolers.

Your oil filter landing uses 20 x 1.5 mm filter threads. I would recommend the Thermostatic Sandwich Adapter Oil Cooler Kit, # D15751, so that when you start out cold your engine oil has the opportunity to heat up before oil is routed through the cooler.

Along with this kit you will need a cooler. I would use the Combination Transmission/Engine Oil Cooler, # D13302. Your engine oil will route through the lower portion of the cooler and you can then route the transmission fluid through the upper part of the cooler with the Transmission Cooler Installation Kit, # D12006.

For the power steering cooler I would use the Power Steering Cooler, # D13200, along with the appropriate fittings to install the cooler inline with the power steering fluid return line. On your pilot you should be able to install this kit with the addition of a Insta-Dapt fitting, # D13004, between the power steering return line rubber hose and and the new rubber power steering cooler hose.

I attached and edited a couple of drawings that should help with the installation of the power steering cooler and the transmission cooler.