Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 1996 Nissan Pathfinder Towing a 1900 lb Trailer

Question:

i just purchased a trailer light harness from you and i have a question about towing my 83 scamp trailer 13 ft long to hitch, told it 950 lbs maybe 1100 lbs dry weight with gear lets say 1900lbs and 200 inside the nissan i drive a 1995 nissan pathfinder 3.0 l v6 auto trans with a power switch changes shift points helps in mtns towing etc.. i was told that a good drain of fluild in trans helps before towing long distance and not to use a cooler at all so what do you think on coolers

asked by: Joe Z

Expert Reply:

There really is not a down side to using a transmission cooler on a vehicle. It has been proven that transmission coolers will prolong the life of a transmission. Especially when the vehicle is towing a trailer. I would strongly recommend you install one since you will be pulling a 1,900 lb trailer with your 1995 Nissan Pathfinder. The power switch might enhance the shift points so that it will perform better while towing, but it will not prevent excess heat from building up in your transmission like a cooler would.

To give you an idea on how heat affects a transmission check out the following mileage ratings for transmission fluid when kept at different temperatures.

195 degree F. allows the fluid to be run for up to 50,000 miles before servicing is required
212 degree F. causes the fluid life to be cut in half to 25,000 miles
235 degree F. causes the fluid life to be cut in half again to 12,000 miles
255 degree F. causes the fluid life to be cut in half again to 6,250 miles

I attached an FAQ on transmission coolers for you to check out also.

The Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D12906 that you referenced would work for you as long as you have enough clearance in front of radiator. The dimensions of this product are listed on the product page.

I also attached a link to an installation video for a transmission cooler for you to check out also.