I have a mechanical temperature gauge in my turbo-charged mini-van. So I turned the factory idiot temp gauge into a trans temp gauge because I didn't need two engine temp gauges. In my Dakota I didn't want to add another gauge so instead I installed a switch to switch between the engine temperature and the transmission temperature using the same gauge. I'm going to be towing a mini-van from AZ to CA and a car back to AZ next week. There are a couple of hills on I-10 so I wanted to be able to monitor my transmission temperature.

A 5.2/5.9 engine coolant temperature sensor installed in a brass T and installed in the transmission to cooler (trans fluid out) line.




Engine temperature selected, ambient today was about 110* and I have a 180* thermostat.


Transmission temperature selected.


A.J.

 

Cool, simple method.

 

That was a great idea that you did there. Wish you could have a deep transmission pan that would hold a few extra quarts of fluid, that would also help.

 

Best reading is in the pan!

 

Fluid in the pan can become stagnant. I based my decision on temp sensor placement on engine temp sensor placement. I used the line going TO the trans cooler just like an engine has the engine coolant temp sensor in the radiator hose going TO the radiator.

 

Cool idea. Too bad that crappy gauge doesn't give any actual temperature readings.

 

awesome idea

 

on the old 727s in Park it didnt flow coolant through the cooler. dont know about the newer ones. so your reading in Park may be off. just an idea.

 

Ya but it gives me an idea of what it is. I know where 200* is so it's more of a reference.

A lot of vehicles hardly flow in park so I am aware of that. My concern is when I'm towing.

 

i think you are doing real great. you found a solution and fixed it easily. tons better than nothing. i wish i could still work on my truck. check out this external filter.


man o man i about forgot yes its a cut & past sorry. __________________
after you clean the trans. add this to your*chrysler*trans. an external fluid filter
1. go to auto-zone. get 2210, its called a power steering filter, but it is for transs to. it is for 3/8 tubing. by (magna-fine) be sure to use high pressure hose. Reff:http://www.magnafilter.com
2. for other sizes wix 58964 5/16 tube size