Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2007 Dodge Caravan Towing a Pop Up Camper

Question:

I was told by the service department of my local dodge dealership that the 2007 Dodge Caravan already has an external transmission cooler installed from the factory. I cant find this written anywhere. I am planning on towing a small tent trailer aprox 1500lbs loaded with the 2007 Caravan. Do I still need to install an external Tranmission cooler? Is it redundant? Can I install the Derale cooler #D13503 if I do have an existing external transmission cooler? thanks

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

Nearly every vehicle with an automatic transmission has a transmission cooler. I would guarantee that your 2007 Dodge Caravan has one, especially since your local Dodge dealer told you the same.

Typically, the factory transmission coolers of vehicles are adequate at best when you are not towing so I would recommend you get a supplemental transmission cooler as well.

The best way would be for you to keep your factory cooler and then route a supplemental cooler, like the Derale Cooler # D13503 that you referenced, after it to maximize the cooling. Basically, the fluid will travel from your transmission into and then out of your factory cooler, then to the supplemental cooler and then finally back to your transmission.

It is not redundant to have to coolers like this because the general consensus is that you cannot have transmission fluid too cool.

Check out the FAQ article I attached on transmission coolers also.

expert reply by: Jameson C