How to Find Line For Derale Cooler For 2017 GMC Savana

Question:

Hi. Im looking to install either a new or supplemental trans cooler on my 2017 GMC Savana 2500 with the 4.8l Vortec V8. It currently has an oem cooler, but it really seems to be laughable as far as its cooling capabilities. My temp usually gets to 185° but it hit 206° Monday. It isnt even summer here yet, so that has me concerned as I just had a new tranny put in it when it failed after 50,000 miles. Im interested in the D13614 trans cooler. This van as I said does have an oem cooler installed and from what I can see there is no integrated cooler in the radiator. Are there any special fittings other than the one listed under this cooler that I may need? Im planning to tackle this myself, but am wracking my brain figuring out how to go from the oem cooler to the aux cooler and back to the tranny. Im probably over thinking it as I am known to do sometimes. Any help or suggestions are much appreciated.

asked by: Aaron

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hey Aaron,

So what you'll do when installing the Derale Series 9000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13614 in series with the OEM cooler on your 2017 GMC Savana is find the two transmission oil lines that run from the transmission to the radiator, and from what I can see your OEM cooler is right at the front of the radiator.

You'll need to find the return line, which you do by warming up the vehicle and feeling the lines, with the colder of the two being the return line, which you'll disconnect and run a hose from to the Derale. Then you'll use the Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM # D13035 and attach it; no other adapters are needed.

I have added a cutout from the linked installation instructions which should give you a good idea of how it will look.

expert reply by: Kyle S