Hot Transmission, what can I do?
What I have: 1996 Fleetwood Southwind 35LS, 460EFI, E4OD, Banks headers, Transcommand, US Gears Dual Range (under/direct), Dana series 80 5.13, trans temp gage, 96k miles, 19,800 Lbs fully loaded (inc...
Forum Discussion
What does the fluid LOOK and SMELL like compared to new fluid? If its off color or has a burnt smell to it, clearly, after 6000 miles it is getting too hot. Remember that the transmission fluid temperature gauge only tells the AVERAGE temperature of the fluid at the location of the sensor. When the fluid is under shear stresses in the planetary gear sets, bushings, and clutch packs, portions of the fluid may get much hotter than what the gauge says but only momentarily before it mixes with other cooler fluid. That is why the fluid is circulated (mixed) constantly. Generally its the temporary elevation of the fluid temperature under stress that kills it, not the average temperature in the lines or pan.
A quick cheap fluid test is to place several drops of fluid on the back of a clean white business card. If the fluid disperses evenly into the paper, its a good sign. (not a guarantee) If you see rings, blots of soot, or particulate debris, the fluid is toast.
In my younger shop days I seem to remember the fluid temperature charts referencing suggested fluid life rather than transmission life.
Chum lee
A quick cheap fluid test is to place several drops of fluid on the back of a clean white business card. If the fluid disperses evenly into the paper, its a good sign. (not a guarantee) If you see rings, blots of soot, or particulate debris, the fluid is toast.
In my younger shop days I seem to remember the fluid temperature charts referencing suggested fluid life rather than transmission life.
Chum lee
