Frame mounted trans cooler only?

[gopokes]

Just like the title, is it ok to run a frame mounted trans cooler without running lines to the radiator? I know I have seen some build threads that people have done it, but I'm having a hard time finding much in my search efforts. I won't ever be pulling anything with my truck if that matters. Oh and the tranny is a 460le behind a 5.3 engine. Any help with this would be awesome!

[cdowns]

you might have the tranny too cool for optimum operation// the radiator gives that needed warmth to fluid

[leddzepp]

It is called an auxiliary cooler for a reason....to be used in addition to the heat exchanger in the radiator. Water transfers heat more efficiently than air, so I would not bypass the heat exchanger. As told to me by a design engineer at GM.

[cparman]

I agree with both of the above. Transmission fluid needs to be at a specific temperature, and the Radiator tranny cooler does this and then keeps the fluid at that temp ( around the same temp as the water in the radiator ). I run a line into the radiator cooler, then out of the radiator, then thru the aux cooler and then back to the transmission. Now the real question? Why would you want to risk a $2000 transmission for about $100 worth of parts, and 2-3 hours of your time?

[gopokes]

Originally Posted by cdowns

you might have the tranny too cool for optimum operation// the radiator gives that needed warmth to fluid

I didn't even think about being too cool, makes sense though. Thanks!

Originally Posted by leddzepp

It is called an auxiliary cooler for a reason....to be used in addition to the heat exchanger in the radiator. Water transfers heat more efficiently than air, so I would not bypass the heat exchanger. As told to me by a design engineer at GM.

I guess the GM engineers would know, they do spend a little cash on that stuff huh.

Originally Posted by cparman

I agree with both of the above. Transmission fluid needs to be at a specific temperature, and the Radiator tranny cooler does this and then keeps the fluid at that temp ( around the same temp as the water in the radiator ). I run a line into the radiator cooler, then out of the radiator, then thru the aux cooler and then back to the transmission. Now the real question? Why would you want to risk a $2000 transmission for about $100 worth of parts, and 2-3 hours of your time?

It's not the parts or time, I just thought if I could get away with it that route would be easiest. My lines were kinked when I got my engine. This is exactly why I love this website, only took a few minutes to get all the answers I was looking for. Looks like I'm headed to the parts store after work. Thanks for all your help guys!

[CCCC]

Originally Posted by cparman

I agree with both of the above. I run a line into the radiator cooler, then out of the radiator, then thru the aux cooler and then back to the transmission.

In my humble experience, the above is right on - correct way to do it for more than one reason.