[V10nacuda]

Been doing research on transmission upgrades & my transmission guy suggested bypassing the heat exchanger & replacing the factory air to air cooler. The truck is driven in the summer only at a tow vehicle with about 20k loaded including the truck.

Also been reading about removing the check ball to help cooling and lessen the chances of blockage. I know the check ball works because I went to flush the lines and they only go one direction.

Thoughts???

 

[Rpadar]

Been doing research on transmission upgrades & my transmission guy suggested bypassing the heat exchanger & replacing the factory air to air cooler. The truck is driven in the summer only at a tow vehicle with about 20k loaded including the truck.



Also been reading about removing the check ball to help cooling and lessen the chances of blockage. I know the check ball works because I went to flush the lines and they only go one direction.



Thoughts???

I don't see the point of removing any of the factory stuff. It will do just fine at keeping the trans cool and why bastardized it? There is a chance of failure with the heat exchanger but not enough that it would warrant bypassing it. IMHO

 

[Brian_]

do the check ball, don't mess with the heat exchanger.

 

[V10nacuda]

Where is it located on the 04.5 truck?

 

[waywardtravel]

Follow the return line from the front mounted cooler.
You will see a joint in the line that houses the return check ball.
I noticed a drop in temps when I drilled it out but with an aftermarket trans.

To protect transmission investment and cool things down I have considered replacing the fluid exchange cooler with an additional fan cooled unit but it is more prone to failure. It's not a failure that will leave you stranded if the fan dies but deep water is one of my concerns.

In cold climates factory fluid coolers are highly recommended even if it's only a few months a year.

 

[jballou]

Liquid to liquid coolers outperform air to liquid by far. Just drill out the check ball or remove the section and splice in a hose. That should be all you need.

 

[cerberusiam]

Add a shift kit, remove the check ball, and drive it. The shift kit and removal of the check ball will help cooling more than any additional cooler.

The heat exchnager is by far the most efficient piece in the system. The cooling system is over sized and used for an effective heat sink.

Towing in the summer is when it is needed the most.