Recommended Transmission Cooler For A 2013 Ford Expedition XLT

Question:

I have a 2013 Ford Expedition XLT. I want to tow a 8,000lbs travel trailer but according to Fords specs I need the HD tow package which I do not have. What I am missing from that list is an upgraded radiator and Transmission oil cooler. I was looking on your site for a transmission cooler to fit my 2013 Expy but my vehicle was not listed....is that because my vehicle already has an existing transmission cooler? Do I need to upgrade it to pull a 8,000 pound TT? Thanks,

asked by: Grant

Expert Reply:

You are correct in that towing a trailer over 6,000 lbs. with your 2013 Ford Expedition XLT will require you to have the factory equipped heavy duty tow package, according to the vehicles owners manual. The factory equipped heavy duty towing package came with additional towing supplements such as a 7-way wiring harness, auxiliary transmission cooler, electric brake wiring kit, and a trailer brake controller.

No, the Expeditions without the heavy duty factory towing packages did not come with an auxiliary transmission cooler. I called my contact at Derale and they informed me that there are no specials requirements needed to install a transmission cooler on your vehicle. The most effective option we have is the Derale Hyper-Cool Remote Transmission Cooler Kit w/ Fan part # D15960 as this is a remote mounted kit with included fan that will not block airflow to the vehicle's radiator, which is crucial for heavy duty towing applications. The most cost efficient option we have is the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets part # D13504.

If you do not already have a brake controller, I recommend looking at the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 as this brake controller is one of our most advanced controllers with integrated safeguards to protect your vehicle, trailer and controller. You will also need a few more items for installation like part # 3034-P in addition to a 4 to 7-way adapter like part # 37185 and about 7 ft. of part # 10-1-1.