Will Supplemental Transmission Cooler Help 2001 Ford E350 Van

Question:

Hello Im thinking I best invest in a trans cooler as I intend to tow a landscape trailer across state lines. Im told a stacked ? cooler is the better design? Im not sure because I havent looked yet to see if my vehicle has a cooler installed from the manufacturer or if a supplemental cooler is necessary. If it already has one, would there be a benefit of having a second one? Also, can you tell me of any trans fluid additives which might improve heat transfer or any friction related concerns so I can hold onto the trans as long as is possible? My vehicle is a 2001 Ford E350 with a 6.8 engine. Not sure of the trans but I can find out tomorrow when its light. Thanks

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

So let's start with benefit, and the answer is absolutely yes, your 2001 Ford E350 van will benefit from a supplemental transmission cooler. Reason is, you cannot overcool fluids, and because towing is a stressor, additional cooling keeps temperatures down and helps prolong the lifespan of your transmission whereas just the factory cooler won't have that effect.

And while a stacked plate cooler is good, you will get just as much cooling prowess from a plate-and-fin cooler which agitates fluids as well with its smaller plates. And since you cannot overcool fluids, the best option is the largest cooler you can fit, so as long as you have the space (you'll want to measure), I recommend an 11" wide x 12" tall x 7/8" deep cooler from Derale:

- Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13504

Then for your Ford you'll also need adapter fittings, the Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for Ford and Lincoln # D13024.

As far as your last question, I am not aware of any fluid additives.

expert reply by: Kyle S