Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler Recommendation for a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
Question:
is there an oil cooler for a2012 dodge 3.6 grand caravan. how hard is it to put an oil cooler on a 2012 dodge caravan
asked by: Wayne D
Expert Reply:
If you were looking for a transmission cooler for your 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan, then I would recommend the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler, # D13502, that you referenced. This transmission cooler is rated for up to 6,000 lbs and the ideal installation location is in front of the AC condenser or radiator.
The installation process could take some time for someone who does not have experience installing aftermarket coolers in vehicles. For those who are mechanically inclined, the process should not be very difficult. If the area behind the grille is not easily accessible, then the front bumper cover may need to be removed. I have attached an installation video on a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan. The vehicle is older than yours, but the video should give you an idea of what is involved.
This cooler includes a universal adapter fitting, but many customers find it easier to cut the transmission fluid return line and install compression fittings. The most common size is 3/8 inches, but it would be safe to measure first. I have attached links to the compression fittings that we carry, part # D13031, D13032, D13033.
If you were looking for an engine oil cooler, then I would recommend the Derale Stacked-Plate Engine Oil Cooler, # D15602. This oil cooler is the stacked-plate design, which is the most efficient and smallest in size. It comes with a sandwich adapter that mounts between the engine and the oil filter and supplies external lines for the oil cooler. It also has an assortment of multiple sleeve nuts to ensure proper filter thread size. I have attached an installation video for the engine oil cooler for you to check out as well.
If you were interested in both systems, then you could install each system individually, or use the Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler, # D15902. This eliminates the need to have two separate coolers. This cooler is much larger than the individual coolers, so you will want to measure in front of your AC condenser or radiator to ensure you have enough room to install this cooler. It measures 17 inches wide x 12-1/2 inches tall x 3/4 inches deep.
Products Referenced in This Question
Derale Transmission Line Compression Fitting Kit - 5/16" Line to 3/8" NPT Barb
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Fittings
- 3/8 Inch NPT Hose Barb
- Derale
more information >
Derale Transmission Line Compression Fitting Kit - 3/8" Line to 3/8" NPT Barb
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Fittings
- 3/8 Inch NPT Hose Barb
- Derale
more information >
Derale Transmission Line Compression Fitting Kit - 1/2" Line to 1/2" NPT Barb
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Fittings
- 1/2 Inch NPT Hose Barb
- Derale
more information >
Derale Stacked-Plate Engine Oil Cooler Kit w/ Sandwich Adapter (Multiple Threads) - Class III
- Engine Oil Coolers
- Stacked-Plate Cooler
- W/ Sandwich Adapter
- Class III
- 13W x 4-9/16T x 2D Inch
- With - 8 AN Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Derale Combination Transmission and Engine Oil Cooler with Multiple Threads
- Transmission Coolers
- Transmission and Engine Cooler
- Standard Mount
- 17W x 12-1/2T x 3/4D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Mid-Size Truck
- SUV
- Van
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 7-1/4T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Transmission Cooler Recommendation for a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
- Q&A: How to Determine the Return Lines for a Transmission Cooler on a 2000 Dodge Caravan
- Q&A: Installing Derale Class III Transmission Cooler # D13502 in 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan SE
- Shop: Derale Dyno-Cool Tube-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit - Class III - Economy
- Shop: Derale High-Temperature Replacement Hose for Transmission - 11/32" Inner Diameter - 4' Long
- Shop: Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Shop: Derale Transmission Line Compression Fitting Kit - 5/16" Line to 3/8" NPT Barb
- Video: Suspension Enhancement System Installation - 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
- Search Results: monroe
- Search Results: timbren
- Shop: Side Window Vents
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: WeatherTech Side Window Rain Guards with Dark Tinting - Front and Rear - 4 Piece
- Shop: Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Derale Series 8000 Transmission Cooler Review
- Q&A: Wheel and Tire Recommendation For Jet Ski Trailer with Tire Size ST175/80R13
- Shop: Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Search Results: 44649
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: 68149
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Brake Controller Wiring for Ford E-450 Motorhome
- Search Results: 44610
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Shop: Brake Controller