Transmission Cooler

[DTN]

Looking at the options for towing (example: tow package) on a 2021 1500 Big Horn I don't see a transmission cooler option. Does the 1500 already have a HD transmission cooler standard?

I'm looking to tow a travel trailer soon and need to know what upgrades I might need. I do have the Big Horn Level 1 Equipment Group, class IV hitch, brake controller, tow mode, anti-sway, trailers connections, etc.

Just wondering if I need a HD transmission cooler for my 5.7 hemi mds option.

BTW: Is the 5.7 mds without eTorque no longer an option ?

 

[jdefoe0424]

There is no heavy duty trans cooling option available. They have a cooler...of sorts, the OEM refers to it as a heater.
There is aftermarket parts available to bypass the thermostat in the transmission heater, unless you're pulling at max all the time I wouldn't worry about it. Change the fluid and filter every 50-75k and truck on, these zf 8 speeds have been in many cars for many years now.

 

[DTN]

Thanks for the info and advice! I do plan a 4000+ mile trip to start with but it will be over a few weeks.

 

[silver billet]

From my experience towing with the 5th gen; coolant and transmission temps are well controlled and you shouldn't see any issues even pulling up hills for a long time. The hotspot on our trucks appears to be engine oil temps, I'd keep an eye on that. My transmission has always stayed quite "cool". Possibly if you get into stop and go for a long time with constant up/down shifts you might see some temp increase? But just cruising down the freeway in 6th gear (with your 3.92 you'd probably be in 7th) it will stay cool all day long, I've been very impressed with this transmission so far.

 

[IvoryHemi]

I'm looking to tow a travel trailer soon and need to know what upgrades I might need.

I strongly recommend the 4-corner air suspension for $1,805

BTW: Is the 5.7 mds without eTorque no longer an option ?

Strange it’s not listed anymore. A sign of things to come maybe

 

[cj7]

From my experience towing with the 5th gen; coolant and transmission temps are well controlled and you shouldn't see any issues even pulling up hills for a long time. The hotspot on our trucks appears to be engine oil temps, I'd keep an eye on that. My transmission has always stayed quite "cool". Possibly if you get into stop and go for a long time with constant up/down shifts you might see some temp increase? But just cruising down the freeway in 6th gear (with your 3.92 you'd probably be in 7th) it will stay cool all day long, I've been very impressed with this transmission so far.

...what he said...