FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

I am running a trans cooler that is mounted front and centre of the radiator, would it be beneficial to space the trans cooler away from the radiator or doesn't it make much difference?
I have had recent problems in warmer weather taking the car through city traffic and have been advised that the radiator is big enough but air flow may be an issue.

Glenn,

Using the transmission cooler directly against the radiator can do two things, in time the movement against the fins will lead to the radiator fins developing wear marks against the radiator and cracks in the cooling tubes will develop. The second is that it creates a hot spot and actually serves to heat the coolant that flows down the tubes where the oil cooler is mounted.

It is far better to leave approximately 10mm between the two and use a soft rubber insulator to ensure that there is no chance of any rubbing and that there is no direct convection heat from the cooler to the radiator.

Better still if you can find somewhere where it can get full airflow and not be anywhere in front of the radiator. This is the best scenario of all, however this is the most difficult to achieve

Keith

Thanks Keith, the trans cooler is mounted in an angle iron bracket that keeps it away from the radiator, but only by 5mms or so, no rubbing but I guess I am getting a hot spot  :-\

Glenn, mine's mounted underneath the car; under drivers seat. No probs so far.
cheers, jack
ps   havent seen that Gal yet, but I now know who owns it; also found out it runs a 351 on gas;
      so probably not your old one. More info tomorrow.