Installing a Transmission Cooler in a 2005 Chevy Tahoe with 5.3 Liter Engine

Updated 06/11/2014 | Published 06/09/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit - Class IV - Economy

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$78.19

Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM

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$16.69

Question:

Do you guys have a diagram or something to help me out installing the cooler on my 07 Tahoe 5.3. Mine does not have a cooler so I am trying to figure out how it goes

asked by: Arturo C

Expert Reply:

All vehicles with an automatic transmission have a factory installed transmission cooler. It is usually located inside the radiator out of sight. The exception seems to be on some CVT transmissions or on certain vehicles where all the lines are hidden.

There are lines going to and from the transmission for the fluid. A line goes from the transmission to the radiator and then back out to the transmission. When installing a supplemental cooler the flow will go from the transmission to the radiator. Then from the radiator to the supplemental cooler. And from the supplemental cooler to the transmission.

The only trick then is to determine which line is the return line back to the transmission. Your Tahoe likely has the 4L60E transmission which is a 4-speed automatic transmission. If so the return line is the top line on the transmission. I have linked a video showing installation of a cooler on a similar vehicle.

To avoid having to cut and flare lines I also recommend fitting # D13035.

expert reply by: Michael H