Which is More Helpful When Towing: Engine Oil Cooler or Transmission Fluid Cooler

Question:

What will make the biggest difference to a vehicle towing a trailer trailer, an auxiliary transmission cooler or an engine oil cooler such as this? Will adding both make a noticeable difference?

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

Transmission cooler is definitely more important than an engine oil cooler. Most modern vehicles have cooling systems that are very efficient and an engine oil cooler is not needed at all. In some cases they actually will slightly lower oil pressure so they really aren't recommended. Transmission coolers do help a ton to preserve the life of a transmission so we recommend them highly. Basically you can't over cool transmission fluid and the cooler it stays the longer the transmission lasts. If you have an older vehicle with a large engine and you have a radiator that just can't keep up an oil cooler like the Derale part # D15660 would be a great option. Especially if its an off-road vehicle where the air flow just isn't there but if you have a newer vehicle I'd hate to see you waste money on something that would help.

For a transmission cooler the Derale part # D13503 works really well for nearly all vehicles and also fits easily too. This would be a great option for your vehicle. It measures 11" Wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Raymond

2/8/2020

What if my truck has an oil cooler? I was thinking of getting aftermarket one? I have 2011 f250 6.7 Thanks

Jason S.

2/10/2020

Since your truck already has an oil cooler if you want to increase cooling you will simply add another one inline. I recommend the Derale Plate-Fin Engine Oil Cooler Kit w/ Adjustable Sandwich Adapter (Multiple Threads) - Class V # D15405 as an excellent option.