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Many folks visit their local auto mechanic or auto dealer and get an ATF aux cooler installed in their Tow Vehicle. Most folks install the LPD (Low Pressure Drop) design - since its more efficent then tub and fin design. I wanted something "better then default" for our mini-van. Especially for my specific hot summer and extreme winter cold region. Thus, I bought and installed my own customized method.
For my mini-van, I bought 2 x 1/2"x1/2" steel L-bracing approx 3 ft long. I bought the Hayden LPD ATF Cooler rated for attached 5,000 lbs trailer. Went 1 size larger then our mini-van can pull because by default, our mini-van runs hotter then most. I then installed the steel rails in a vertical postion and bolted the AFT cooler to it - creating 1" gap behind it.
For pictures, surf:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...er-Tophose.jpg
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...rSupport-3.jpg
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...rSupport-2.jpg
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...rSupport-1.jpg
Why the 1" gap between the ATF aux cooler and its its AC rad?
Within my north region, its gets very cold during the winter. Sometimes, down to -30 and often between -15 and -20 range (during normal winter months). Many say that having ATF "too cold" is as bad as having it "too hot". Too cold is hard on its inner seals and its moving parts. And, installing a front grill cover (shown on some pickups) might hold "too much" heat within its engine cavity.
During the winter months, I simply take a thick plastic bag (re: old plastic salt bag), fold it over and wrap it around my vehicle's frontal ATF aux cooler. The 1" gap (between AC rad and ATF aux cooler) allows me to "wrap" my ATF cooler during the colder winter months.
re:
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...interRAD-2.jpg
http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w...interRAD-1.jpg
If installing your own ATF aux transmission cooler or asking a mechanic to install on your behalf, do remember to implement the install method that is best for your specific region. Or, target driving locations. For me, wrapping my ATF aux cooler with a winter coat (sort of speaking) during cold winter months is a good thing. Thus, well worth the customized install method.
Hope this helps others...
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