Tranny cooler and filter install questions

[Grease is the word]

A local transmission shop did mine on my Dodge Grand Caravan 3.8L. It was all done with rubber hoses and regular hose clamps. He took the output from the existing transmission cooler and put an extension / in-line fitting on it. Then added some hose to the output of the new cooler. Then a new piece from the existing cooler output to the new cooler input.

I believe that the stacked plate coolers are better (more efficient) than the tube/fin variety -- if you haven't already purchased one. Plus they are less obstrusive looking -- they are usually black instead of silver and match the radiator / condenser better.

 

[TooManyWheels]

The minimum for a dependable installation would have the cut ends of the metal tubing single or double flared to provide a barb effect for the hose. Another method would be to attatch to the tubing with a compression fitting which adapts to a either a hose barb for the hose, or a threaded fitting to match an industrial type hose.

The latter method is probably rather rare if someone is doing it for you, you may well end up with just cheap hose slipped over unflared tubing.

 

[txmatt]

When you install an aftermarket transmission cooler and/or filter, what is the plumbing work involved: cutting/bending/flaring new metal tubing, use rubber hose for plumbing to and from new cooler, ...?

Thanks,
Matt