Installed Transmission Cooler

[palpullero]

Just wanted to show off my transmission cooler install. I hope to make a DIY later.

1. Bumper had to come off (note: I had to remove more than the bumper, but I'll detail that later):

2. Research the area for the cooler install:

3. Install the cooler (you will need to intercept the return fluid line; more details when I make the "DYI"):

4. Wire the switch and relay (relay not shown and the second switch is for my radiator fan switch bypass mod):

5. Enjoy cooler temps!

Note: I changed the transmission fluid to Amsoil Signature Series ATF Fuel Efficient after the installation and I never seen my transmission fluid temp so low - it never goes above 180 degrees F, even here in Florida. I changed the fluid from original fill to Liqui-Moly ATF 1800 at 38K miles and again at 68K miles; I performed the install at 70K. With Liqui-Moly I saw temps sometimes past 200. I use a ScanGaugeII to monitor several items in the car. Same roads all the time (this is my commuter vehicle). I feel the combination of the cooler and Amsoil is a big winner; I would recommend it.

When I get the time I'll make a DYI.

Cheers!

 

[BigLee]

I just installed an auxiliary cooling fan control switch onto my radiator, which triggers the low speed fan circuit when the radiator core reaches 160°F.
This allows the factory trans cooler to work much more effectively, and keep fluid temps considerably lower.
Even in 100°F summer weather, my trans fluid rarely exceeds 160°...

 

[skurtov]

Would be useful for a manual, but you'd have to install a pump system as well.

 

[thebaron]

A friend installed a huge cooler on his car with an engine upgrade a long time ago from Florida, but drove it north during winter and the tranny wouldn't work well in the cold.

 

[TitanBlue]

A friend installed a huge cooler on his car with an engine upgrade a long time ago from Florida, but drove it north during winter and the tranny wouldn't work well in the cold.

GOOD POINT! I just read on a website that Transmission Fluid can not be over cooled, but I have seen your friends experience and your concern, expressed many times by others. My experience is enthusiast sites for Nissan Titan pickups (I have a 2006 and have a cooler). Guys up north would experience poor performance in extreme cold, some removed the cooler if they realized it was not needed in there application. Transmission fluid is not at its best at ambient temps! One manufacturer; Tru-Cool, even references this issue in advertising their particular design.

I found this thread as I am considering a cooler for my new to us 2016 Sonic. Doubt I will ever tow our 5x8 Landscape trailer; rated 3,000#, but could use our basket. Very interested in good maintenance.

 

[TitanBlue]

E-trailer recommended this cooler. I think I will get it soon, as we may add a Class 1 Receiver for hauling our rack. FLX400117 Flex-a-lite. About $85 on AMZ.