An old trick is to figger out where the 'normal' operating range is, and then rotate the gauge so that when things are as they should be, the needle is straight up and down. Then just a quick glance will tell you if anything is awry.

 

Tranny temp varies too much to do that IMHO. Mine is in the cubby as stated, and I have no problem seeing it. You get used to looking at where the needle is under normal conditions. I highly suggest turning off OD and keeping it off unless you are on the highway doing 60 or more. The tranny gets hotter driving around town with it on, as apposed to with it off.

 

Thanks for the tips. Like i said eventually im going to replace it with a digital gauge, how accurate are those?

 

Consider your engine temp gauge... that's electrical. They are pretty close in any event. Within a few degrees +/-. Just make sure you install the sensor someplace that it gets an accurate picture of what the trans temp really is. (like, in the outlet line to the cooler... as close to the trans as you can get.)

 

Same thing. LOL It's all your preference, I'd say under normal driving it's going to vary 10 to 30 degrees anyway. Doesn't need to be that technical. All you need to know is if it shoots up to 200 or above(then you have a problem). Anything below that is all driving conditions, stop and go traffic, towing, etc.....

And it needs the Diesel Manor manifold.

 

yeah i will be ordering the diesel manor manifold next week. I drove it about 30 miles today and it never got over 175. Im thinking that i need to flush my radiator really well and un-bypass the cooler.

 

I put a digital in my '99 sport two weeks ago when I did the the new filter, adjusted the bands, new fluid and a New Derale Pan.

Typically runs at about 130deg but will climb to 155-160 in stop and go traffic. I have seen it as high as 180deg while sitting in traffic for about 15 min but comes right back down soon as I start moving.


Temp on the gauge at 162deg was after sitting in the driveway for ~20 mins. Took the 3 pictures one right after the other. Also is the view I have of the dash.