Thanks for your input! I came to the conclusion that I do need the external cooler...it just made sense.....even though a local mechanic said "nahhh, you won't need it....." I guess a gal should just trust her first instincts, eh?

I have a 2004 Chev Astro Van. Will be hauling a 3000# tent trailer plus gear and kayaks up the Coquihalla. The tranny does have cooling through the radiator, but do I need an external tranny cooler as well? Appreciate any comments.

Thanks! I will check them out.

Hey thanks okie1 and Astro Will! Appreciate the information! Just took my TankGrrrl on a small road trip, and it was awesome. I do need to get new tires. I am sure they will improve the ride! Anything else you would recommend doing or keeping an eye on? Enjoy the sun!

Hiya,
Newbie here. When you say you run a "180" thermostat, what do you mean, and is that the thermostat for the engine? Thanks for your patience...LOL!

Glad to find this forum. Just bought a 2004 Chev Astro Van. Spent $800 on a new fuel pump, and now going through it to fix the obvious! Love this van! Hope to do some of the work myself. I will be making an access door through the floor to be able to replace the fuel pump/filter much easier. Will be...