Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2005 Ford Explorer 4.0L

Question:

2005 Ford Explorer, 4.0L V6, regular 3500lb tow package. My family and I are wanting to do some camping. The trailers we are looking at are right around 3500lbs, so we need a transmission cooler that will increase that capacity up to 5000lbs. Do you have a transmission cooler suggestion? Please help

asked by: Wesley

Expert Reply:

First, adding a transmission cooler will not increase the towing capacity of a vehicle unless the manufacturer states that by adding one the towing capacity can be maximized. According to the owners manual, if you have the towing package with 3.73 LS rear axle ratio, you can tow up to 5,760 pounds. With 3.55 rear axle ratio the max is 3,240 pounds.

If your model has the higher rear axle ratio and came with a tow package, you can tow up to 5,760 pounds. A transmission cooler is recommended. Adding a cooler if the vehicle has the lower ratio will not increase the capacity. You can have a dealer run the VIN number of the Explorer to determine what options it has.

For a cooler # D13503 would be a good choice. You may also need a special fitting, # D13025, for installation. I have included some links on transmission coolers for you including a video showing a typical installation.

expert reply by: Michael H