Recommended Transmission Cooler For 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 323 Cubic Inch Engine

Question:

I have a 2010 Chevrolet Silveradio 1500 that is rated to tow 9,600 lbs. I will be towing a camper trailer that weights approximately 9,200 lbs occasionally in mountains. the truck has a factory transmission cooler installed, what cooler should I use with the factory installed cooler?

asked by: Jeff D

Expert Reply:

For your 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, I think you are on the right track with the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13503 you asked this question from. It is 11" wide x 8-3/4" tall x 7/8" deep.

For your specific application, I recommend a plate-fin cooler like the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient, # D13504. This plate-fin style provides increased surface area for the plates to cool faster. This transmission cooler has the turbulator technology that agitates the fluid to help with heat transfer, but also helps with the fluid pressure. This cooler is 11" wide x 12" tall x 7/8" deep. Either transmission cooler will connect right in line to your factory transmission cooler as long as you have room for its installation.

If you have limited space for your cooler, you can get a fan cooled unit and place it anywhere. For that application I recommend the Derale 16-Pass Electra-Cool Remote Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Fan, 8 AN Inlets - Class V, # D15900. This has an inline thermostat to turn the fan on when needed and off when not necessary. I've attached installation details for you.

If you will be installing this cooler directly into your radiator, we will also want the Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM, # D13035. This allows us to intall the line easily to the factory clip. If you have the 5/8 inch hex transmission lines, then you will want # D13018.