Is a Heat Sink Frame Rail Transmission Cooler Good Enough for a 1991 Chevy S10  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Heat sink coolers like # D13250 are not as efficient as other coolers but they are great at fitting in narrow spaces. If you want the optimum amount of cooling then you would want to go with a stacked plate cooler # D13403. This cooler is rated as a Class V which means it is very efficient.

We also have # D13402 which is a little smaller and classified as a Class IV. You would also need mount kit # D50020 if you go with the smaller Class IV cooler. I have included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H

0

Hatish

4/10/2025

Hi Michael, You mentioned that the sink type coolers are not as efficient as the other types namely plated type. I feel the same, however, many sites do state that the sink type is equal to the air-cooled finned engines and it is self cooling particularly at standstill or slow traffic conditions. I'm using sink type on my 68 Mustang, but intend to change it. Please advice me. Thanks a lot

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Kate F.

4/17/2025

@Hatish 1968 Mustang, awesome car! The stacked plate are better because they move more heat out of the oil. They have more surface area and get better airflow, which helps cool the oil faster, especially when driving hard or in hot weather. For your '68 Mustang, a great option is the Derale Hyper-Cool Remote Mount Stacked Plate Cooler with Fan # D15660. It uses a high-efficiency stacked-plate design and comes with a built-in 10" electric fan, which means it cools effectively even when the car isn’t moving, perfect for stop-and-go traffic or hot days. Since it’s a remote mount, you can install it wherever you have space, like under the body or inside a fender. It also includes a thermostat that kicks the fan on around 180°F, so it only runs when needed. If you’d rather mount a cooler up front and don’t need a fan, the Derale Series 9000 Stacked Plate Cooler # D13403 is a solid choice as it is compact, durable, and great for consistent airflow at speed. Let me know if you’re cooling engine oil or transmission fluid and how much space you’ve got, and I can help dial it in even further. I have to ask, what color is your Mustang?

Helpful Links

tv-demo-derale-engine-oil-coolers-hyper-cool-remote-engine-cooler-kit-with-fan-d15660.aspx

tv-demo-derale-transmission-coolers-19-row-stacked-plate-transmission-cooler-kit-d13403.aspx

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