Transmission Cooler

[TTnNC]

I want to intsall a transimission cooler on my truck and have some questions. First off it is a 94 Sierra 4X4 with a 4.3L Vortec. I tow my 20ft reconditioned Pontoon boat with it, total weight of boat and trailer somewhere around 4,400lbs.

There are so many coolers on the market it is difficult to tell what type or brand to get? they all seem (on the surface) to be the same. Has anyone here installed one and what brand did you use?

It appears that the kits come with everything needed, or is this really true? Do you need special fittings ect that do not come with the kits?

Installation seems pretty straight forward as well but, it all does on paper! Are there any "tips" that may help with installation? Or is it really that easy?

I want to protect my tranny and investment and I feel that this is a very inexpensive upgrade to make.

Any suggestions or help is highly appreciated!

[PeteA216]

They are fairly easy to install, and do make a difference in keeping the tranny cool while towing. I recommend getting an aluminum cooler because of the good heat transfer porperties of aluminum, it would allow for maximum cooling.

[TTnNC]

I bought this one, seesmed to be a decent choice. Any one have one of these?


Hi-Tek Trans Coolers



Product images may differ from actual product appearance.

B&M’s SuperCooler low pressure drop coolers reduce the risk of lube system failure. A controlled amount of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is allowed to bypass the stacked plate core, passing through a self-regulating orifice, which monitors resistance to flow. Controlled by viscosity, the thicker ATF is returned directly to lube through two open bypass passages positioned in the stacked plate core. As operating temperatures increase, more of the ATF flow is directed through the core. The result is highly efficient cooling technology that combines improved protection against lube system failure with the required levels of optimal heat transfer.
The smallest size and lightest weight cooler relative to cooling capacity you can buy! High efficiency rating allows a smaller cooler to get equal, or better cooling than ordinary in and tube coolers. The rigid design is resistant to damage from flying rocks or other debris. Pressure tested to 200 PSI. Includes installation kit (cooler lines, fitting & mounting hardware). Easy to install.

[PeteA216]

Thats pretty good. It's not what I used... the one I used looks like a miniature aluminum condensor or radiator. Better cooling, but not as tough as yours. What you got will help out a bit though, especially with towing.

[slredstorm62]

on my 94 sierra 4x4 5.7 liter the cooler was built in. it just had lines that went from the side of the tranny right into the right side of the radiator. idk if you could but the radiator with the cooler in it and just run the lines.