My next question I hope someone can help with....
I want to install a transmission temp gauge. I am told the senders for these are normally installed in a factory test port location on the side of the transmission. Normally found in front of the pan or close by that area.
I am getting crazy rain where I live right now so I can't (don't wanna lol) go crawl under the truck. Does anyone know if the Dakota has a test port on the transmission? If so, what size are the threads?
Thanks very much.
2004 QC 4x4 w/ 4.7

 

I put mine on the cooler line. They are steel, but you can easily cut the line, and add the sensor with some rubber hose.

 

be sure and use high pressure hose on any chrusler TF cooler lines. also found this good EXTERNAL fluid 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

 

Thanks for the info.

Magnethead, I assume you are saying to cut the steel line and install a rubber hose in-line with two hose clamps. The sensor will be installed into the rubber hose. I like the idea very much. I will definately copy your method!
Is there any way I could trouble you for a picture of where you put yours?
Or maybe you could just explain the location in detail for me? I have not been under the truck with the purpose of finding these lines yet.
Thanks for the tip very much!

 

I added a 16 pass cooler with 10" fan in-line to the factory cooler, it's mounted under my bed. So I just have the sensor in that rubber line. I have the sensor between coolers on mine, so it's not a "true" trans temp, but it gives me an idea of what it is. As I recall, the fluid flow comes out of the front pump, through the factory cooler, then I added the temp sender and the 16 pass, then the inlet is on the tailhousing.

If you have a flaring tool, it helps if you add a shallow flare the the steel lines when you cut it, as it helps secure the rubber hose (but not too much flare, will cut the hose). Yes, use high pressure 3/8 ID hydraulic hose. Typ system pressure in reverse is about 300 PSI. And even with the flares, put two hose clamps. I have about 6 inches of steel/rubber overlap, with flares, and two hose clamps 3 inches apart.

I'll take a pic of the setup and post tomorrowish.

 

Okay I think I got it. I like the idea of adding a second cooler. After I get the gauge in there I will decide if I want to add one or not. I did trace my lines today and figured out that the aux cooler I have on the truck is in fact for the trans so I am very pleased that I do at least have a OEM cooler on it.
Would love to see picks of your setup if you do find time to snap some.
Thanks!