Comparing Derale Transmission Coolers for 2009 GMC Sierra SLT 1500 5.3L Towing 26ft 5,400lbs Trailer
Question:
Hi there! I need help selecting a transmission cooler for my 2009 GMC Sierra slt 1500 5.3l. What would you recommend? I have a 26 ft travel trailer that weighs 5400 lbs. transmission temp was getting hot while towing last summer. What is the difference between derale d13503 and d13504? Is a larger cooler always better when towing such a heavy load for a half ton? Thanks for any help -tom
asked by: Tom L
Expert Reply:
Good news, I can help you compare the two Derale transmission coolers as well as help you select the right one for your 2009 GMC.
The main differences of the two transmission coolers # D13503 and # D13504 are the size and Class number. The # D13503 measures 11 inches wide and 8-3/4 inches tall while the # D13504 measures 11 inches wide and 12 inches tall. The # D13503 has a Class III rating and the # D13504 has a Class IV rating. The Class rating to let customers know that if they have a Class II hitch on their vehicle, then a Class II cooler should be sufficient, but they can always use a larger cooler for more cooling if they like. Both coolers will require the # D13035 transmission adapter fitting for your Sierra though.
The general rule is that transmission fluid cannot be cooled too much, so using the largest cooler that will fit is a good idea, especially if you are towing. The only reason not to add the largest cooler possible would be if you live in a very cold climate where temperatures are commonly below 0 degrees and you have a transmission cooler installed. This would warrant warming the engine for a few minutes. Most people warm the engine in these cold conditions anyway, so size is not typically a factor.
I would recommend if you have the room to go with the larger # D13504 cooler, because as stated above you cannot over cool your engine.
I have linked the above mentioned products to this page as well as a few help articles about the best places to mount the cooler for your convenience.
Products Referenced in This Question
Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Radiator Adapters
- Derale
more information >
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Full-Size Truck
- SUV
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 12T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Mid-Size Truck
- SUV
- Van
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 8-3/4T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
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