There are no one-size-fits-all options for car parts, including transmission coolers. That’s why it’s critical to purchase the ideal part. Learn what to consider when choosing a transmission cooler and select the right option for your vehicle.
Understanding Transmission Coolers
The purpose of transmission coolers is to cool your vehicle’s transmission fluid so that your car won’t overheat. It also helps vehicle performance, as it supports an efficient car. The automatic transmission fluid shouldn’t exceed 225 degrees Fahrenheit for good performance. It should stay within a 175- to 225-degree range. When fluid goes above the maximum level, problems will occur.
The fluid begins to cook and will harden if it reaches 260 degrees Fahrenheit. As it gets hotter, internal and external leaks can occur. In extreme cases, the overcooked fluid can cause the transmission clutch plates to slip and eventually burn out. At that point, the transmission is unusable.
Don’t risk the lifespan of your automatic transmission by failing to use a cooler. The cooler takes the hot fluid and lowers the temperature to prevent damage. It’s essential to select the right transmission cooler for your vehicle.
Consider Your Vehicle Type
The major thing to consider when choosing a transmission cooler is the type of vehicle you own. Ideally, you want a cooler than fits the make and model of your vehicle. Beyond this factor, think about your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) rating. Each car has a cooler that aligns with the GVW. This rating system range from 10,000 to 30,000 pounds. And the more your vehicle weighs, the more transmission fluid it needs. Thus, you need the right transmission cooler to chill the amount of fluid.
Different Types of Coolers
The three main types of transmission coolers are stacked plate, tube and fin, and plate and fin. Here is a closer look at the primary options.
- Stacked plate – Utilizes a tube to carry the fluid inside the cooler. Stacked plates are the most popular coolers and the easiest to install. They’re also highly efficient!
- Tube and fin – Created with aluminum and an S-shaped tube with fins. The fins absorb heat from the fluid, enabling airflow and cooling the fluid as it goes through the tubes. This is the least efficient option, but they work well in older cars.
- Plate and fin – Parallel plates quickly cool fluids. They also have a large surface area, making it easier to effectively cool fluid in various vehicles. Given the good performance, this option is more expensive than the other coolers.
Keep your vehicle cool with trans oil coolers from Transparts Warehouse. Browse our selection to purchase the best option. If you have any questions, please contact us.
