silver mist AWD wrote:Hi-
New to the forum, but found this thread very helpful and joined up last night.
Welcome Aboard!!!
silver mist AWD wrote:I first noticed hard shifting out of first gear after a long road trip in the mountains. We came down into Roswell NM, and after the first stop light there was a very hard slam into second. It did it a couple more times on the way to the motel.
The next morning (cold van and cold weather) there was no problem, but added a half a can of trans-x before leaving Rosewell for any benefit it might provide. The Van had about 116k miles, is a 2000 AWD and never had any problems like this. It has had regular maintainence and done very little towing.
I have got to say that when my tranny begins to shift funny, it is generally due to a fluid level issue. Maybe only 2 oz low on stick, but a fluid level issue none the less. How many oz of trans=x went into the tranny? Do Not OverFill Your Tranny!!!
silver mist AWD wrote:I finished install of a tru-cool (9054 if I remember correct) rated for 18,000 lbs towing which is plenty for my needs. I found a nice stick of Aluminum to use across the bottom for a mount, and the supplied strapping for the top, leaving room for a fan if ever I decide to use one. I tied mine in with the top line going to the cooler. (Should be okay as far as typically not extreme cold here?)
I noticed most installations pictured here mount the units with both pipes facing the port side of the venicle. I did mine with both on top. I have seen factory installations on other vehicles this way. Any problems with that that anyone can articulate? A friend said it would be best if it held fluid rather than drained. At first drive it warms up well, so it is doing what it is supposed to, no leaks.
How did the Manu instruct it to be put in? Sometimes they only show pictures, but if they don't show it mounted on the roof, it generally doesn't go there. I would contact them for clarification of a proper direction for install.
silver mist AWD wrote:And as a last question, add comment, etc, I put off the messier job of filter/gasket replacement until later, perhaps wait until I can order a drain plug kit. Anyone know for sure that this method of total replacement of fluid works, and if you have done it, can you describe again exactly how you do it for me?
I would not dink around with a drain plug configuration. Service according to the Service Manual, and you will be fine. A pan drop will require about 5 qts of Atf. Use Amsoil, Like I do. Your trans will thank you for it.
silver mist AWD wrote:Thanks in advance. Off to do another test in the heat of the 102' day!
Post up some Pix... We do have a Rule 6b.
LOLz, Jim
PS Again Welcome Aboard