Should An Additional Transmission Cooler Be Added To A 2005 Lexus GX470 For Towing

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Question:

I have 2005 Lexus GX470. I occasionally tow a 3000 lb travel trailer in southern CA desert which sees triple digit temp with steep incline. I have a transmission gauge and shows that I get to about 210F when climbing a 6 incline at around 90F ambient temp at noon. Engine coolant gets to about 200F to 205F. But as soon as I get to a flat area, I average about 185 to 195F on tranny temp. Can I install this Derale frame rail to supplement my stock transmission cooler? I should be able to mount it right next to the stock cooler which is in front of the condenser. The bumper is enclosed and does not get direct airflow but I think the side of the number has grills that should get the airflow to the cooler. If I can install this, what should be the average tranny oil temperature that I can expect? Is 215F a bad temperature to be in during hot incline while towing? What is the durability of this product? I’m afraid it could leak if it’s made of very thin copper.

asked by: George

0

Expert Reply:

The transmission fluid temperature you have of 210 degrees while towing up an incline is a little high but once you hit flat ground, the 185-195 degree range that you have is perfect. Therefore, I do recommend you install a supplemental transmission cooler for towing up inclines. For this, the Derale 12" Frame Rail Transmission Cooler part # D13222 that you referenced is okay but I recommend the Derale 17" Dual-Pass Heat Sink Transmission Cooler part # D13264 because this will be more durable and provide better cooling power while installed on your frame rail.

That said, I called Derale and they couldn't provide any hard numbers on temperature but I think the Dual-Pass Heat Sink Transmission Cooler will get you to where you need to be while towing up an incline as you are not too far off now. Please note you will most likely need extra line as well, part # D13003 just to be safe.

expert reply by: Conner L

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Should An Additional Transmission Cooler Be Added To A 2005 Lexus GX470 For Towing

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