Trans cooler

YJ Bill · April 22, 2002

I have a 2002 Silverado 1500 5.3 auto and need an auxillary tranmission cooler for towing. Should I go with the factory kit or aftermarket? Are any special tools needed for the fittings?Thanks in advance for the help!

Shaners · April 22, 2002

The factory unit is very expensive!!! I bought one for my '00 Silverado because it didn't have the tow package. The factory kit also comes with steel tubing on it, and the dealer said it was very difficult to install.

The aftermarket units are very good and will probably give better cooling for alot less $$$. They are also easier to install.

YJ Bill · April 22, 2002

Thanks for the info shaners, can anyone out there recommend an aftermarket cooler and install kit? I would rather not have to make my own lines and hunt down the correct fittings, thanks again.

obyone · April 23, 2002

Before removing the fittings, you should know that they are quick disconnects. Letting you know so you don't drive yourself crazy trying to get them off.

rikhek · April 23, 2002

Hayden Extra Heavy Duty Cooler (up to 30,000 GVW) for $44.00 delivered to the door new off Ebay. Could also buy directly from an online store for a little more or a local retailer for quite a bit more (i.e., Pep Boys, Auto Zone, etc). Will also need a "Hayden Transmission Line Adaptor Kit #390" which I bought locallly at Auto Zone for $8.00. Very good stuff.

Install wasn't bad, HOWEVER, a VERY, VERY good tip...Cut the supplied hose in half and install the cooler lines onto the adapters at the work bench first, prior to installing the adapters into/onto the radiator and tranny return line. Getting the hose onto the adapter is so tight it is almost impossible!!! Once the hose is on the adapters and the adapters are installed then connect the hose to the cooler.

Also, I found no quick disconnect fittings. Just regular threaded connections. Look at the "Front Grill Removal" thread for instructions on removing the grill.

Rick

YJ Bill · April 24, 2002

Some good info guys! I have one more question though, I heard that with the aluminum radiator cores used in newer vehicles it is not good to attach the cooler directly using the plastic ties. What do you think?