If I'm towing a 7x14 enclosed trailer, with bikes in it (anywhere from 2000 - 3500lbs, depending on who's with me.), a few times a year, should I invest in a transmission cooler, or is it a waste for this occasional use?

2002 F150 SuperCrew FX4 with the 5.4L and 3.55 rear end.

Thanks.

 

Your truck already has a tranny cooler. Look at the lower front of your radiator. The auxiliary cooler on the driver's side is for the power steering fluid and the larger one on the passenger side is for the tranny. You can see it through the bottom of your bumper or it's much easier to look through the hole where the hood latch mechanism is.

 

Hmm. Ok. I thought that only came with it if I had the factory towing package. I'll check it out. Thanks!

 

That's what I thought also, but mine has the package so I've always seen one.

 

Wow! He's right. It's there, along with the power steering cooler.

Well then, I'm good to go. Bought my hitch today, and will be getting my electric brake controller/wiring done this week.

Thanks for the help!

 

Ok, from what I have been able to figure out, if you get the factory towing package, it includes an UPGRADED transmission cooler. Does that sound correct?

But, for the amount of towing I'll be doing, I think this one will be fine.

 

You are good to tow with the standard cooler. Your instincts are correct. The weight you're towing will not strain your tranny. If you were towing 7,000 lbs thousands of miles a month, then I'd say you might want to seriously consider an upgraded cooler.