Comparison of Plate and Fin Style Transmission Coolers and Tube and Fin Style Transmission Coolers

Published 02/10/2010

Question:

Have a 2003 f-150 with the 4.6 L V8 and need a transmission cooler for pulling trailers. Trying to decide on the 2 products below….which is better and the pros and cons of both. Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Hose Barb Inlets - Class IV - Extra Efficien Product Code: D13504 Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit - Class IV - Economy Product Code: D12904

asked by: Jeff N

Expert Reply:

The difference between the plate and fin style, # D13504, and the tube and fin style cooler, # D12904, is that the plate and fin models can cool better than the tube and fin models. You will notice that plate and fin coolers with the same rating as tube and fin coolers are smaller in size. Basically, the plate and fin cooler provides more surface area to extract heat from the transmission oil and also has internal turbulator technology to help the oil to cool faster and prevent pressure loss.

Many times, a plate and fin cooler with higher capacity can be installed on a vehicle where the same capacity tube and fin model will not fit. In your case, the installation area should be sufficient for either cooler. I would use the plate and fin style for the added benefits, especially since the difference in cost is not prohibitive. Transmission fluid can not be over cooled. I have included a link below to a video showing a typical installation of a transmission cooler.

expert reply by: Robert G