Transmission Cooler Recommendation for 1990 Chevy C/K Series Pickup

Question:

I have a 1990 Silverado 2500. I would like to install a plate and fin style cooler. Looking through your catalog. I found 2 sizes that I like sizes are approximate. 6x11x2 and 8x11x3/4. I intend to do some light to moderate towing with a car trailer. Both will fit nicely in front of the condenser. The 8x11x3/4 will probably give me the option of placing a fan in front of it later. While the 6x11x2 is more compact. Does one have an advantage over the other as far as cooling w/o a fan?

asked by: Louie W

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you're speaking of the Derale # D13501 which measures 11 x 5-3/4 inches and the Derale # D13503.

A larger cooler will offer more surface area for the heat exchange, so when it comes to transmission coolers bigger is typically better. Unless you live in a climate that's consistently below freezing for much of the year, saying that you can't overcool a transmission is a pretty safe statement.

The most efficient spot to mount a cooler is directly behind the grille in front of the radiator, and if you get the largest cooler that will fit in the available space, I'm confident that even light to moderate towing shouldn't require a fan unless you'll be towing up steep grades in heavy traffic.

If you have the necessary space, I'd go with the # D13504 11 x 12 cooler that you'd looked at.

I've linked to some help articles and a video that explains a typical installation.