2005 CRD External Transmission Cooler

goopwagon · **Joined:** Tue Jun 20, 2023 6:36 pm **Posts:** 11

Just decided I'd explain my quick process for installing my transmission cooler yesterday.

I sprayed off my A/C condenser and I guess it blew a huge chunk of dirt that was keeping it from leaking off, so it started pouring transmission fluid.
(Why GM put the A/C condenser and the transmission cooler in the same part beats me.) It seems like the end welds were bent and/or cracked.

Instead of spending $300 for an entire new condenser, I decided I would just install and aftermarket cooler.

I went with the Hayden 698 https://www.summitracing.com/parts/hda-698?srsltid=AfmBOopwVwDvsKC6-R3wKJdmJMkfU2M1XH1Q18GNxlpsVSQPo5QbQ49K, larger than the 696 but still not big enough to cause an issue.
Very simple install. I installed it in the lower right corner on my A/C Condenser right behind the AC Fan. Wasn't a TOTALLY perfect fit, I had to trim about half an inch off the fan back plastic. I used the kit that came with the cooler to mount it through the condenser and the radiator. I simply ran the cooler hose straight to the same barb that was on the old cooler and left the end pieces on the old cooler open.

https://imgur.com/a/5BVfSky

I drove it to work today, so far I haven't had an issue but it also wasn't very hot today. I had to fill up the transmission with about 2.5 quarts (I didn't drain it completely) but I will keep an eye on it after I drive home today and make sure it is still full. Haven't seen anymore leaks either.

Anyone wanna share their experience in the replies? Let me know if there is a better way I should've gone about this. Thanks.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Mon Sep 02, 2024 12:48 pm

FYI:
You can purchase a brand new OEM style Nissens A/C condenser/transmission cooler from Rock Auto for $155 + shipping.
Installed one for a customer a few weeks ago and and it was a very well made replacement part; fit and functioned perfectly.

If you are going to abandon the OEM transmission cooler completely, then you need to install a large replacement ATF cooler to ensure adequate cooling.
The problem with aftermarket/add on coolers, is finding a good location for mounting that provides good air flow across the cooler and does not negatively impact other heat exchangers.
After adding an additional Derale stacked plate ATF cooler on my Jeep in series with the OEM cooler, located it in the lower bumper opening, it was still not enough when towing. Then I added an aluminum PML Deep Sump transmission oil pan which has cooling fins and holds about three more quarts of ATF+4. This cured all transmission temperature issues when towing even in 100+ temps & high humidity. (I have a ATF temp gauge)
:BANANA:

https://www.rockauto.com/en/parts/nisse ... enser,6708
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.ph ... 6708&jsn=3

goopwagon · **Joined:** Tue Jun 20, 2023 6:36 pm **Posts:** 11

It seems like the one I bought is nearly the same size as the stock one at the bottom of the condenser, only its more square rather than rectangular. The Hayden 698 is meant for large trucks that tow 5000lb or more. I'd assume this is all I need since I don't even tow things normally.

goopwagon · **Joined:** Tue Jun 20, 2023 6:36 pm **Posts:** 11

Also the stock cooler is 20x5 inches. The new on is 9x11. Overall it is basically the exact same size as the stock.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Mon Sep 02, 2024 5:49 pm

If your new cooler works and keeps your transmission fluid temperature below ~190 degrees in the pan, then you are good.

An added cooler along with the OEM cooler just did not keep my fluid temps down when towing in high ambient heat and humidity conditions.
I saw some 220 - 230 which I was not comfortable with! :shock:

This is what finally worked very well for me in conditions: :BANANA:

OEM cooler, Aux cooler, and deep sump finned aluminum oil pan. :wink:

goopwagon · **Joined:** Tue Jun 20, 2023 6:36 pm **Posts:** 11

Just an update. Jeeps been doing fine so far. Driven it in heavy traffic with just the one cooler. Though I am thinking about purchasing another one at some point and just having two coolers.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Fri Sep 06, 2024 2:13 pm

goopwagon wrote:

Just an update. Jeeps been doing fine so far. Driven it in heavy traffic with just the one cooler. Though I am thinking about purchasing another one at some point and just having two coolers.

If you really want to improve and supplement your transmission cooling capacity, you should really consider one of the deep sump transmission oil pans like the PML or or one of the others. Adding several extra quarts of ATF+4 capacity along with having cooling fins in the oil pan really makes a big difference in maintaining lower fluid temperatures under ALL conditions.

goopwagon · **Joined:** Tue Jun 20, 2023 6:36 pm **Posts:** 11

Eventually I'd want to do this, but as of right now I don't have the $400+ funds for such an upgrade.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Fri Sep 06, 2024 10:23 pm

goopwagon wrote:

Eventually I'd want to do this, but as of right now I don't have the $400+ funds for such an upgrade.

PML Deep Transmission Pan for Dodge RFE 68RFE, 65RFE, 66RFE, 545RFE, 45RFE Part Number 10304
$265.00 direct from PML (manufacturer)
https://yourcovers.com/pml-chrysler-dod ... n-pan.html

2005 CRD External Transmission Cooler

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