Best Transmission Cooler: Your Definitive Buying Guide
The transmission can be a source of numerous problems for your car, which can give you a headache, aside from the fact that they can be costly to repair. The good news is that there are many ways by which you can prevent the possibility of overheating. In this case, one of the best things that you can do is to invest in the best transmission cooler. Unless you already have one, you’ll never know how it can deliver a wealth of benefits.
While there are many options in the market, this should not be an excuse for you to decide in haste. If you are clueless about which to purchase, keep on reading this guide, and we’ll help you to come up with the right decision. We will have a quick look at five of the best products that you may want to consider.
What Is A Transmission Cooler
Obviously, this is equipment that has the primary role of cooling the transmission. It is a thin and square-shaped component which is placed near your radiator. It will be effective in cooling the transmission fluid, and, in turn, will prolong the functional life of your transmission. The engine will also be cooled. Once the fluid becomes hot because of power steering or the engine, it will be directed to the cooler. After cooling the fluid, it will be re-routed to the transmission through a continuous loop.
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While there are many benefits that can be yielded by the transmission cooler, proper installation should be given attention. It will effectively protect the engine as well. Also, it should be pointed out that not all transmission coolers will work for all cars. You have to research about compatibility as you decide which one should be purchased.
Types of Transmission Coolers
As you try to narrow down the possibilities and reach the right decision, one of the most important things is to decide on the specific type of transmission cooler that you will need. While they are basically the same in terms of their functions, the difference lies in the manner by which they can cool fluid. With this, below are three of the options that you can find:
- Tube and Fin Cooler: One of the distinct characteristics of this type is the presence of a weaving tube that surrounds the transmission cooler. The main role of these tubes is to make sure that the fluid will be distributed around. It comes with a practical price and will work even for older models of cars. However, of the three types, this has a negative reputation because of its minimal efficiency.
- Plate and Fin Cooler: The mechanism is almost the same as the previously mentioned, with the only difference being that the plate and fin cooler are better when it comes to efficiency. The tubes run horizontally, and fluid passes through each row. It is compact and can cool a generous amount in a given time.
- Stacked Plate Cooler: Of the three types, this is the most efficient one. There is no wonder why it is also the favorite amongst many people. In terms of appearance, they are similar to plate and fin coolers. The large size of the turbulator is one of its best features, which will help in increasing airflow. If there is one drawback, it would be the fact that it comes at an expensive price.
Top Picks for the Best Transmission Cooler
| Product (Amazon Links) | Brand | |
|---|---|---|
Hayden Automotive 678 Rapid-Cool Plate and Fin Transmission Cooler |
Hayden Automotive | Review |
|
|
B&M | Review |
|
Mishimoto MMOC-F Heavy Duty Transmission Cooler with Electric Fan |
Mishimoto | Review |
|
Flex-a-Lite 4116JK Translife Direct-Fit Transmission Cooler for Jeep Wrangler JK |
Flex-a-lite | Review |
|
HotRod99 12” Satin Aluminum Finned Dual Pass Transmission Cooler Black |
HotRod99 | Review |
Still clueless about which transmission cooler can provide the best bang for the buck? In this section, we will have a look at five of the products that you may want to consider:
1. Hayden Automotive 678 Rapid-Cool Plate and Fin Transmission Cooler
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Among others, the premium construction of this transmission cooler is one thing that you might like about this product. It is made of high-quality materials. Plus, it has undergone rigid pressure testing. Based on this test, it can withstand pressure of up to 150 PSI.
The efficiency of this product is also impressive. Compared to tube and fin transmission coolers, you can expect that it will be more efficient by as much as 33%.
It also has internal turbulation, a technology that has a patent and exclusive to the manufacturer. The latter will make it deliver optimal performance as it can significantly improve the transfer of heat.
Lastly, the manufacturer is offering a one-year or 12,000-mile warranty. Within such period, if there are any defects, provided that it is not due to your negligence, the manufacturer will issue a free replacement. This should be more than enough to provide you with peace of mind.
Pros:
- Effortless to mount even without zips
- Parts are perfectly aligned
- All components have premium quality
- Can effectively drop temperature by as much as 40 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons:
- Can create transmission pump noise
- Can reduce fluid flow rate
2. B&M 70268 Super Cooler Automatic Transmission Cooler
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The stacked-plate design of this product is perhaps one of its best features. From all of the types of transmission coolers, this is the one that can deliver the highest level of efficiency, which will make you confident about its performance.
It also comes with a rigid design, making it withstand long-term use. It can easily resist external damages. This is unlike other inferior products that will quickly ask for a replacement.
The lightweight aluminum alloy is one of the reasons why it is exceptional when it comes to durability. Aside from managing heat efficiently, this material has also gained positive reputation because of its ability to resist corrosion.
The package is inclusive of an installation kit that is complete with the tools that will be needed. You do not have to buy anything else. However, there are some people who noted that there could be some issues when it comes to fitment.
Lastly, if you still have hesitations about this product, the manufacturer is offering a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- Comes with everything that you will need
- Durable construction
- Not prone to leaking
Cons:
- Possible issues with fitment
- A bit difficult to mount
3. Mishimoto MMOC-F Heavy Duty Transmission Cooler with Electric Fan
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If there is one thing that can easily convince to you choose this product above all others, it would be the fact that it has Limited Lifetime Warranty from the manufacturer. As long as you follow the terms and conditions specified, you can be assured of support from the manufacturer if you experience defects.
In terms of design, the presence of an 8-inch fan is one of its excellent features. This will help in making sure that the temperature in your transmission is low; hence, eliminating the possibility of suffering from overheating.
The 100% aluminum construction is also a plus. This makes the product lightweight. It is also going to be long-lasting, providing you with the confidence of its extended functionality.
If there is one drawback, however, it would be the fact that it is not as popular as those from other brands. In fact, the minimal online reviews can make you hesitant in choosing this transmission cooler above its competitors.
Pros:
- Integrated fan improves cooling efficiency
- High-quality construction
- Comes with a compact size
Cons:
- Installation can be tricky
- Not as popular as other models
4. Flex-a-Lite 4116JK Translife Direct-Fit Transmission Cooler for Jeep Wrangler JK
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Before anything else, allow us to point out that this model is designed specifically for the ’07-’14 Jeep Wrangler. Now that you know it, you should not buy this if you know that it is no fitted for your car unless you want to end up wasting your money.
The superior design of the turbulators is one of the design elements that will make it effective in managing heat transfer. Because of this, you can expect that it will be able to deliver superior cooling for your transmission.
How much exactly is the drop in heat that you can expect from this product? Based on the specifications from the manufacturer, you can expect that the heat will be minimized by as much as 20 degrees, which is significant enough to prevent damage to your transmission.
When you purchase this transmission cooler, the kit is already inclusive of the materials that you will need. There is already a direct-fit bracket, as well as hoses and clamps. However, you might find yourself struggling to understand the instructions from the manufacturer.
Pros:
- Durable design
- Effective in cooling the transmission
- Fits perfectly for the specified vehicle
Cons:
- Hard to understand the instructions
- Limited compatibility
5. HotRod99 12” Satin Aluminum Finned Dual Pass Transmission Cooler Black
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It can offer decent quality, although it is far from being the best within the product category.
The black anodized aluminum is one of its best features. This may not be as durable as the design of the other transmission coolers that have been mentioned above, but it can also deliver impressive efficiency for managing heat.
Lastly, it comes with a 12-inch dual pass design. This is known for being instrumental in the cooling effect that it can provide for your transmission.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Easy installation
Cons:
- Can be prone to leaking
- Not very durable
Essential Factors to Consider When Buying
Below, we will enumerate some of the most important things that you should take into account to increase the likelihood of making the right choice.
- Ease of Installation: With little knowledge and effort to spare, you can install the transmission cooler on your own. But, this is not always the case. With this, pick one that is user-friendly, which will allow you to complete the installation without asking for professional help. It should have a simple design and the manufacturer must also provide comprehensive instructions.
- Compatibility: As it has been earlier mentioned, there are different types of transmission coolers. You need to find one that is tailor-fitted for the specifications of your vehicle. You need to look at gross vehicle weight rating. The latter will be a measurement of payload capacity. Pick the right one to be assured that it will perform efficiently. Otherwise, it will only be a waste of money.
- Efficiency: You need to make sure that the transmission cooler is efficient to make it deliver optimal functionality, especially in terms of dealing with overheating. From the earlier discussion, we have noted that stacked plate cooler is perhaps the best choice when it comes to efficiency.
- Reviews: At the end of the day, if you find it hard to decide, the best thing to do is consult with what other people have to say. You can ask around from other people who bought a transmission cooler before. Also, you can go online and learn from the reviews of other people. Through their experiences, it will be easier for you to narrow down the choices and make the right decision.
- Warranty: This is one thing that can eliminate the doubts that you might have about a specific product. It will be good if there is a lifetime warranty. This means that the manufacturer will repair, exchange, or replace the product if it turns out to be defective, provided that you abide by their terms and conditions.
Conclusion
The best transmission cooler, indeed, is a necessary investment. It can effectively cool your transmission, and hence, prevent the possibility of overheating. This is a good way to prolong the lifespan of the engine and to get rid of costly repairs. Its benefits, meanwhile, can only be apparent if you choose the right product. With this, I hope that the discussion above has been helpful. Narrow down your options to the five models we have earlier mentioned.
Is there anything else that you need for your engine or your car? Click here and learn more about other products that you might find to be useful as well.
