Solution For 2008 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L Overheating When Towing 4,000 lb Trailer Up a Grade

Question:

I have a 2008 GMC Sierra 4X4 1500 5.3 L auto with only 20,000 miles in very good shape. My truck gets over heated when I pull my new 4000 LB trailer up a grade. I would like to add a heavy duty trans cooler and any additional parts I would need. Also, should I add an auxillary electric fan?

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

If you are pulling a trailer under the towing capacities of your 2008 GMC Sierra 1500, the engine temperature of the truck should not overheat. I would recommend having the vehicle looked over by your GMC dealership.

What I would recommend is adding a combination transmission and oil cooler, as well as a cooling fan. This will cool the transmission fluid, the engine oil, and engine. For this, I would recommend the Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler, part # D15903. You will need to measure to make sure you have room to mount the cooler, as it measures 17 inches wide, 12-1/2 inches tall and is 3/4 inches thick. The most efficient place to mount a cooler is behind the front grille, in front of the radiator.

You could also add an electric fan setup. I would recommend the Derale Radiator Fan, part # D16816. You will also need to measure to see if you have space to mount his fan. Since this fan has a high and low setting, I would recommend using the Derale Dual-Fan Adjustable Fan-Control, part # D16789.

Another option would be to have an all in-one setup like the Derale Electra-Cool, part # D15220, which is an engine oil, transmission cooler, with an electric fan. In addition, you would need Derale Remote Engine Oil Cooler Installation Kit , part # D15752, and Derale Installation Kit, part # D13006.

I have linked an FAQ on transmission coolers and an FAQ on electric fans.