Recommended Transmission Coolers and Programmer For a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD 6.0L 4L80E

Published 12/30/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(886)

$120.43

Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for GM

(46)

$17.37

Edge Gas Evolution CTS3 Performance Tuner - Color Screen

(13)

$799.95

Question:

Thank you in advance for taking the time to review my question! Ive asked a few questions via your website before and have been very impressed with the answers. Thank you! I have a 2001 Chevy Silverado 1500HD with the 6.0L engine and the 4l80e transmission. I tow a 5400lb trailer up a very steep grade 7-10 for 10 to 15 miles about 2 to 4 times per year. Each time I do, my transmission temperature gets hot up to the red line on my stock gauge, but not over the red line and my engine temp gets hot up to the red line on my stock gauge, but not over the red line. I want to solve both problems: the transmission fluid temperature and the engine coolant temperature. Can you give me some recommendations on the best way to do this?

asked by: Nate

Expert Reply:

First I recommend getting a Edge Gas Evolution CTS3 Performance Tuner # EP39YR for your 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD. This will allow you to get more power to make towing easier on your Silverado and will also allow you to more accurately monitor temperatures on your engine and transmission.

For your transmission I recommend the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13504. This is a large plate cooler which will help to lower transmission temperatures when towing. You will need to use the Adapter Fittings # D13018 to attach the cooler to your radiator. With this helping to lower transmission temperatures it will also help to reduce coolant temperatures since the transmission fluid will not be as hot. We also have the Derale Transmission Pan Cooler # D14207 you can use to replace the factory transmission pan on your 4L80E. This has cooling fins and will allow for an additional 4-1/2 quarts of transmission fluid. The pan is a great option if your transmission is in need of a flush and new filter already.

For the engine cooling there are options like larger radiators and electric fans which can help to reduce engine temperatures. I recommend starting with the transmission coolers and programmer. You can also clean any dirt from your radiator to ensure it is cooling properly. If you have bent fins there are combs which can be used to straighten the fins to ensure for maximum cooling on the radiator.

expert reply by: Bud M