Quote:
Originally Posted by Smitty CC
Transmissions are not that sensitive to cooler temps. they operate in sub zero conditions usually just fine. Extreme conditions might gel the fluid but I don't think that's a problem in this case. The real enemy is HEAT!
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That's not how it all works, and is not an accurate explanation of the
workings of an automatic. Fluid will not GEL either! IF that were the
case, so would your engine oil.
They don't stay that cold, AND there is a bypass valve that is used in
sub-zero temps, to lower pressures till it warms up; Automatics. Also,
you have NO torque converter LOCKUP when they're that cold. If you
run the trans too cold, then you lose TCC Lockup, which is wasting
fuel. No TCCL, will in itself, heat the fluid. Coolers can add a delay in
TCCL in colder outside temperatures.
Automatic transmissions are designed to work at a certain temperature. As
with an engine, the trans has to run hot enough to get rid of any
condensation that builds up, and to keep the viscosity at the correct level for
best operation.
170-f is optimal, with spikes, so it burns off any moisture... I had a Dodge
Avenger ES, with the A904, and right on the dipstick was a 170 degree
temperature MAX warning. That's IMPOSSIBLE without a cooler! The
A904 was weak to begin with, and temps killed them quick. I placed a
medium duty cooler on it as soon as I got it home. It had 153,000+ miles
at trade in. I bought this car off the show-room floor.
HEAT is the enemy, but so is too cold conditions.