Will an Aftermarket Transmission Cooler Use the Factory Transmission Cooler Lines

Updated 05/16/2014 | Published 05/15/2014

Question:

I have a 2005 1500 suburban with a factory trans cooler mounted behind the grill. I would like to replace it with a larger cooler using the factory cooling lines and connections. Please let me know if this can be done. Thanks for your time.

asked by: Joe Z

Expert Reply:

Aftermarket transmission coolers do not typically accept factory lines, but the installation will be easier since you already have lines ran for a transmission cooler.

The first step that you will want to take is to choose a transmission cooler. Typically, you want to choose a transmission cooler based on your trucks towing capacity. For example, the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 may have a maximum towing capacity around 8,500 lbs depending on how it was configured. At that capacity, I would recommend the Derale Series 8000 Transmission Cooler, # D13504, as long as you have room for it to fit. This cooler measures 11 inches wide x 12 inches tall x 7/8 inches deep.

Once you have a cooler, you will want to look at the factory transmission cooler lines. If the lines are rubber hoses, they may slide over the inlets on the cooler. If the lines are metal, then you will want to use the included hose between the transmission cooler inlets and the factory lines. To secure the hose to the factory lines, they will have to be flared. If they are not flared, then I recommend flaring the lines so the hose does not eventually slip off.

expert reply by: John H