Trans Fluid in Radiator

[ntsqd]

Number 1 reason I will not be using the tranny cooler in my aluminum radiator, just don't want to take the chance.

I run a separate trans cooler because of the risk.

There's no reason to fear the trans cooler in a quality radiator. Do need to be careful about installing whatever adapter fittings are required.

By not using the cooler in the radiator you give up the most effective cooler available (liquid to liquid is always more effective than liquid to air) and the ability to keep a trans warm when really cold. In the desert SW the latter may not be too terribly important, but in other parts of the Country it will be very important. The research that I've done over decades indicates that the trans needs to operate at 160°F at the minimum. This both reduces wear in the trans and will remove any condensation in the ATF.

 

[Broncobowsher]

There's no reason to fear the trans cooler in a quality radiator. Do need to be careful about installing whatever adapter fittings are required.

By not using the cooler in the radiator you give up the most effective cooler available (liquid to liquid is always more effective than liquid to air) and the ability to keep a trans warm when really cold. In the desert SW the latter may not be too terribly important, but in other parts of the Country it will be very important. The research that I've done over decades indicates that the trans needs to operate at 160°F at the minimum. This both reduces wear in the trans and will remove any condensation in the ATF.

Completely agree.

While the risk of the cooler failing does exist, it is a really low risk. And the in radiator cooler just has so much good with it.

 

[Ol'Blue]

There's no reason to fear the trans cooler in a quality radiator. Do need to be careful about installing whatever adapter fittings are required.

By not using the cooler in the radiator you give up the most effective cooler available (liquid to liquid is always more effective than liquid to air) and the ability to keep a trans warm when really cold. In the desert SW the latter may not be too terribly important, but in other parts of the Country it will be very important. The research that I've done over decades indicates that the trans needs to operate at 160°F at the minimum. This both reduces wear in the trans and will remove any condensation in the ATF.

I agree the in radiator trans cooler is a good idea. I think my radiator was just at end of life, probably 15 year old aluminum.

I have a two fan Derale to supplement. Kicks on around 190* (may go 200* someday) and so far trans temps have been great, but haven't been off road yet. Will find out at KoH next month.

 

[ntsqd]

That area in Jan/Feb isn't likely to work it too hard. Go again in July or August.

 

[ba123]

Yeah, the rad certainly didn't work for my own trans but I agree that it's the cooler of choice if it does work.

But, rare as it might be, if I experienced a failure I'd never go back either!

 

[Ol'Blue]

That area in Jan/Feb isn't likely to work it too hard. Go again in July or August.

Agree and will do!