Transmission Cooler Recommendation for 2004 Acura MDX

Question:

Hi I will be pulling a 3100# travel trailer a couple times a year for a distance, around 250 miles. Can you recommend the best Transmission and steering cooler for this vehicle? It sounds like to best location is in front of the radiator with the most airflow? Do you have any installation videos that I could reference. Are the mounting brackets included? Thank you

asked by: Steve C

Expert Reply:

I recommend the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13503. This kit includes the complete mounting kit and OEM spec hose with stainless steel clamps and Insta-dapt adapter. This cooler measures 11 inches wide x 8-3/4 inches tall x 17/8 inches deep. You are correct that the best mounting location to provide the best airflow is in front of the radiator.

The most efficient type of transmission cooler is the stacked plate cooler. The plate-fin cooler is not quite as efficient as the stacked plate cooler, but it will work great to help keep your transmission fluid cool while towing your travel trailer. The plate-fin style cooler is more efficient than the tube-fin cooler. I have attached a help article on transmission coolers for you.

I have also attached an installation video of a transmission cooler being installed in a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban. This video will help give you an idea of what the installation for your vehicle will be like, but it is likely that the installation will not be the same.

If you need extra length of hose, you can use part # D13003.

expert reply by: Victoria B