Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

[hibbert6]

I've been told by several people that the tranny (automatic) on my vehicle is known for being weak. My new boat/trailer is heavier than the last one, but well under the weight limit. 2 shops have recommended a tranny cooler; another said that, for the same price, flushing & replacing with synthetic fluid would actually be a better choice as it can withstand much higher temps. Each option costs about $225. Until I can save for a sturdier vehicle, which one would be the better option?

Dave

 

[etracer68]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

What Vehicle, and how much weight???? You will still have the heat with syn oil, but it does help. I would go with the cooler, and syn oil.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

Tranny cooler is cheap insurance against frying the transmission. First thing I put on our Trailblazer was an additional one.
What vehicle and how much weight anyway ???

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

Fitting the cooler is a great opportunity to change the fluid and filter anyway. Personally I can take or leave synthetic fluid but I will take a cool transmission every time.

 

[paultjohnson]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

COOLER all the way

 

[N3UP]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

Both.

Cooler first, then syn fluid......belt & suspenders.

 

[Fishing Dude too]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

Both.

Cooler first, then syn fluid......belt & suspenders.

Agree, synthtic runs cooler, but temp is the enemy. Check auto parts store for cooler, easy enough to do yourself Did mine in abut an hour, or two, cost $75.00 US. Then have shop change filter, and fluid.

 

[hibbert6]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

Thanks, people. The vehicle is a Frod Freestar minivan - and not the "tow" model, either. It pulled our old 15' tri hull no problem. But the new boat & trailer weigh 2800# - well under the 3500# tow capacity of the van, but, as I said, several mechanics said it has a notoriously weak transmission.

After weighing the choices, we're buying a used Suburban. Problem solved.

Dave

 

[CVX20SPRINT]

Re: Tranny Cooler vs. Synthetic Fluid

If the Burban doesn't have a tow package I would still put a cooler on it.Did tranny's at a GM Dealer for 15 years.JMHO.