Tired of dealing with higher than average transmission temps? Consider adding a transmission cooler to your heavy duty GM truck. The beauty of the Allison 1000 is that installing a transmission cooler makes a big difference in transmission temps, especially when using your truck like it’s meant to be – as a workhorse.
Below are our top 3 recommendations for the best transmission coolers for Allison 1000 transmissions.
Mishimoto MMTC-DMAX-06SL Transmission Cooler
Like many Mishimoto transmission coolers, the MMTC-DMAX-06-SL is specifically designed for 2006-2010 GM heavy duty diesel powered trucks including the Silverado, Sierra, Kodiak, Topkick, Hummer H1, and Chevrolet B-series bus.
Overall, if you have an Allison 1000 equipped truck, this cooler can’t be beat for the ease of install and performance.
Because of this, we recommend it in our Duramax Transmission Coolers write up. In our opinion, this is the best all around Allison 1000 transmission cooler kit.
Mishimoto MMTC-DMAX-06SL Specs
Cooler Dimensions: 29″ x 14″ x 4″
GVW: 40,000 pounds
BTU Rating: 45,000
Fitting Size: 3/8″ inverted flare hex with 5/8″ thread size – This is great for those looking to install custom transmission lines
Installation Kit: Yes – Includes universal installation kit with rubber transmission line, various fittings, clamps, and mounting hardware
Mishimoto MMTC-DMAX-06SL Installation
Mishimoto prides itself on making easy to install transmission cooler kits, and the MMTC-DMAX-06SL is no different. With the use of basic hand tools, you can install this transmission cooler in an hour or two in your driveway.
The below video goes into detail about the installation process and what’s needed to get the job done.
Tru Cool 40k
The Tru Cool 40k is a favorite of ours when it comes to universal transmission coolers used on trucks or SUV’s. There are certainly other transmission coolers that might be larger or include a fan, but for the cost consistent performance, and simplicity, it’s hard to go against the Tru Cool 40k for the money.
For any mild use Allison 1000 truck (Silverado or Sierra), the Tru Cool 40k is a great option as a universal application. We highly recommend this transmission cooler in many heavy duty use cases, and this is no exception. In our opinion, this cooler is without a doubt the best all around for any truck or SUV no matter the size.
Tru Cool 40k Specs
Cooler Dimensions: 8 1/2″ x 22″ x 1 1/4″
GVW: 40,000 pounds
BTU Rating: 45,000
Fitting Size: 3/8″ inverted flare hex with 5/8″ thread size – This is great for those looking to install custom transmission lines
Installation Kit: Yes – Includes universal installation kit with rubber transmission line, various fittings, clamps, and mounting hardware
Derale 13870 Hyper Cool Extreme Transmission Cooler
The Derale 13870 Hyper Cool Extreme remote transmission cooler is one serious cooler that will not only keep your Allison 1000 transmission cool, but will do so in the most extreme conditions.
This is Derale’s most efficient remote transmission cooler and is designed to outperform their competition, which it most certainly does, making it one of the best transmission coolers for Allison 1000 applications.
The Derale 13870 cooler was built with the largest and most efficient Derale stacked plate transmission cooler that features 40 cooling rows and an 800 CFM water and dustproof electric fan.
Derale 13870 Specs
Including its fan, the Derale 13870 measures 14 7/8″ x 13″ x 5 5/8″ which considering its size, still allows you to mount it remotely in tight spaces. This cooler is not designed to be used in front of a radiator or condenser unless there have been modifications made and there is ample room.
This cooler comes standard with female threads at the inlet and outlet of the cooler which allows for various size fittings to be used. There are options to use -6an, -8an, -10an, or even up to-12an fittings. Because of this, there is serious flow through the cooler to reduce temps fast.
Cooler Dimensions: 14 7/8″ x 13″ x 5 5/8″
Fitting Size: -6an, -8an, -10an, or -12an
Number of Cooling Rows: 40
Fan Size: 10″
Fan Specs: 800 cfm – water and dustproof
Conclusion
When it comes to keeping your Allision 1000 transmission cool, there are plenty of options that can get the job done. Like with all things related to modifying trucks in general, it all comes down to budget, creativity, or mechanical ability.
With the three options we think are ideal and the best Allision 1000 transmission cooler upgrade options, you can figure out which is best based on your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a transmission cooler that offers a direct fit installation kit, something more universal at a lower cost, or need a more extreme option with a fan, you have options.
After 15+ years in the automotive industry, I’ve developed strong opinions about transmission cooling — and about the lack of reliable information available to enthusiasts who actually need it.
I’ve built and developed transmission cooler systems across a wide range of applications: street cars, race cars, and trucks. I created this site to put what I know in one place.
If you’re an automotive enthusiast trying to make a smart decision about your transmission and its cooling needs, this is the resource I wish had existed when I was starting out.
