transmission cooler choices

Looking at getting one put on the truck for keeping the rebuilt tranny in good shape while towing the boat. We’re all familiar with the regular style of coil coolers that look like a radiator. But there are also longer, tube shaped cooler. One such item is 15″ long, and is a dual pass. I’m wondering when you would use one of these over a radiator type cooler? Does one have a distinct advantage over the other?
Also, when it comes to mounting, the radiator type is easy, going right in front of your actual radiator. What about the tube shaped coolers? They have heat sink fins running the length of the cooler, so it makes sense to mount them so air is moving over them the long way. Where would you mount these, out of curiosity? Thanks in advance for your info.

What truck do you have and what boat do you have ?

I dont run one an auxiliary one my 1996 Chevy 1500 4×4, I am pulling a fully loaded 16′ Lund w/40 hp.I make sure I keep my tranny fluid clean and full.I Service it about every 18 months.

When installing a cooler be careful to not use a too big of one,it will cool too much and you will loose friction value of the fluid.

Most Automotive supply houses will help find which one you need for your truck.

JMHO Jeff

I hope the extra transmission cooling my truck came with is every bit as good as an aftermarket system. I did notice she ran a lot hotter last summer when towing.

I haven’t heard of one cooling too much and losing the friction quality of the fluid before. I have heard that some heat is necessary to remove moisture from the fluid. A large debate is to install it prior to the radiator, or after. I have heard pros and cons to both. Some even bypass the radiator all together, which I avoid.

Here is an article that may explain answer better. why use a trans cooler

My mechanic buddy says to bypass the radiator all together as well, and I’m not sure I wanna do that either. But, I know Dodge’s are notorious for tranny issues.

Mine is a 2000 Sport with the 360 and I’m usually pulling an 18′ Crestliner tandem axle.

Well, interestingly enough, the cooler I bought went back to the store, and I got my cash back. We were tearing things apart, and saw this Dodge already has one installed. Between the A/C evap and radiator, there it sits. I’m guessing the ‘sport’ package on the Dodge is like the Z71 that I’m used to? Made our night in the shop a little shorter. Of course, we just ended up wasting that same time drinkin beer.