Transmission cooler

[Fnp5150]

I'm new to the RV life and am concerned over the need for a transmission cooler. I will be towing a 26 foot Jayfeather weighing 5050lbs fully loaded, 4500lbs dry. My tow vehicle will be a 2007 Expedition with 5.4 motor. It's tow rated at 6000lbs. without the towing package and 8500lbs. with the package. Mine doesn't have it. I'm not too concerned about the engines ability to pull it, but since I'm close to the 6000lbs should I worry about burning up my transmission and install a cooler? This would have been standard with the tow package. I do live in South Georgia where it gets HOT. Will be traveling with 2 adults and 3 kids under age 10. Would synthetic transmission fluid help also? I've only pulled it about 20 miles from the dealer and the transmission temp did go up just a little, and I had overdrive turned off.

[dockmasterdave]

Yes. I tried pulling a 4700lb loaded , TT on the flat ground in FL with a 4.6 v8, and almost burned one up.
It's a cheap and simple upgrade.
You can buy one on the net, that is a factory direct replacement. It snaps into the factory bracket that should already be there.
You probably want to pick up an extra few feet of hose. They seem to cut it pretty close from the warehouse.

[Jack_Diane_Free]

Agree you should get a cooler.

[Fnp5150]

Thanks for the quick reply, I edited the post a little. Could you take another look at it?

[the_bear_II]

I would add a transmission cooler just for ease of mind. Heat can quickly kill a transmission. Long climbs will run the trans temp up.