Upgrading stock transmission cooler

**russ115** · 08-31-2009, 02:54 PM

I have a 2004 Silverado 4x4 extended cap w/3:73 differental & towing package. I want to tow a 5000# travel trailer cross country in the spring, and wonder if I should replace the stock transmission cooler with a larger aftermarket stacked plate cooler & gauge. Has anyone changed coolers, and have suggestions on which one fit in w/o big install problems. Thanks

**Z71_guy** · 08-31-2009, 04:08 PM

never seen anyone do it but i cant imagine that it would be difficult and a good idea for long hauls

**truheel1** · 09-02-2009, 09:44 AM

Why change? Just add the extra cooler and fluid as long as there is room it. 2 coolers........

**Jimmiee** · 09-02-2009, 09:56 AM

Originally Posted by russ115

I have a 2004 Silverado 4x4 extended cap w/3:73 differental & towing package. I want to tow a 5000# travel trailer cross country in the spring, and wonder if I should replace the stock transmission cooler with a larger aftermarket stacked plate cooler & gauge. Has anyone changed coolers, and have suggestions on which one fit in w/o big install problems. Thanks

The stock one is probably OK but if you want a better one get a BW Long Tru-Cool stacked plate cooler.

Also you have to be careful adding an extra cooler. I wouldn't recommend it if you do any driving in sub zero weather. Your fluid needs to warm us as fast as possible for maximum lubrication.

**Crawdaddy** · 09-02-2009, 10:12 AM

What do you recommend for those of us in the never-less-than-70-degrees part of the US? I am currently running my TH700R4 through a plate cooler only (no factory radiator in the loop) and I'm looking to add another plate cooler in line to make sure I have enough cooling while towing. Any thoughts?

**Jimmiee** · 09-02-2009, 11:17 PM

Originally Posted by Crawdaddy

What do you recommend for those of us in the never-less-than-70-degrees part of the US? I am currently running my TH700R4 through a plate cooler only (no factory radiator in the loop) and I'm looking to add another plate cooler in line to make sure I have enough cooling while towing. Any thoughts?

If you eliminate the factory radiator cooler you NEED more cooling. The reason, and most people don't know this, is that aftermarket cooler ratings are based on the cooler running through the stock radiator. It doesn't really say that anywhere but in the fine print. So to answer your question two would be better cooling than one without the radiator cooler. And remember this is not good in cold climates. The newer transmission cooler systems now have a cold weather bypass that bypasses the coolers until the radiator warms up. Ford and Dodge are doing this now so I expect GM will follow suit.