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PPE Thermal bypass valve

1.1K views 9 replies 7 participants last post by  pronstar  
#1 ·
Hey guys, my name is Joshua, I am a proud owner of a 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 Z71 4x4 5.3L. I'm not sure if this helps but my truck was built in Mexico, and I bought it in September 2024 at CarMax in Houston, TX. I bought it at 67,000 miles, and it is now sitting at 77,000. So far there has been no recalls, or issues with the truck itself. I was doing some research because I would like to add modifications to my truck that could probably extend the life of the truck. One of those things were the PPE thermal bypass valve. I bought it today form American Trucks. Yesterday driving I was able to see my temp. in my transmission and it reached a high of 195. I was wondering if any owner in this forum has put the valve installed, and is it safe to use?
 
#2 ·
Don't know anything about that particular brand, but lowering your trans temps should be a top priority for you if you want it to last a long time. You can 'flip the pill' or install a kit and it should run in the 130's or so.
 
#3 ·
I have it installed and as redSLeD stated mine will hang in the 130 to 150 range. When it's 90 + around here it will climb to 180 or so while stuck in traffic. It takes a considerable amount of time to climb that high. As soon as you get some consistent running time getting some airflow across the cooler it drops right back down.
 
#4 ·
Thanks guys. I will follow up with more questions. Before I put any cosmetics/parts on it, id rather spend the money to get the truck in top shape before buying stuff like lifts, brakes, etc. I am also thinking of changing the torque converter as well. I don't think I'll put a cam in, or do any tunes to the truck. I know that the 2018 Chevy, the torque converter sucks. I have been looking at a circle D converter for a 6L80 trans. Specifically a GM 300mm HP Series 6L80 Torque Converter. Sku number 07C-09-09-1A. If you guys know someone, or could recommend other good brands ?
 
#10 ·
My Silverado has the PPE bypass. My trans temps are typically 70-100 degrees above ambient.

Wife's Suburban has the 70C factory updated part. It basically runs the same temps as noted above.


I have been looking at a circle D converter for a 6L80 trans. Specifically a GM 300mm HP Series 6L80 Torque Converter. Sku number 07C-09-09-1A. If you guys know someone, or could recommend other good brands ?
I don't know what SKU your truck needs. But I'm running a Circle D triple-disk 300mm unit in our Suburban. It needs very minor trans tuning according to Circle D...I believe the standard single-disk unit is plug and play, but I would check with them.

Circle D is very proud of their converters and they're priced accordingly. I'm sure there are some good and more-affordable units out there, I'm just not familiar...
 
owns 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab LT
#7 ·
Thermal bypass is a pretty easy project. You'll need to get some snap ring pliers for that though. Pretty good Harbor Freight purchase. There are a few videos out there that say the AFM delete, addressing the transmission temperature issue and an oil catch can will make these trucks "bullet-proof". I've done the transmission and the catch can, but I'm still using the AFM disabler. Fingers crossed and living the dream!
 
#8 ·
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I did mine around October I think and it wouldn't go over maybe 155. Now I'm getting 191 degrees and it's 73 degrees outdoors. Which back in Oct was still around the same temperature outside. What other things would you look into?