Hello All, I am looking for some help with my transmission temp. I was wondering if my readings were normal.

I recently installed Autometer gauges (Trans temp, Boost, & pyro) in my 04 Ram 2500 5.9L (automatic transmission). I installed the transmission Sender in the cooler line that I bought from Dieselmanor http://www.dieselmanor.com/dm_products/DM-CLG3.asp

The installation went well. From start-up, I can drive conservatively in stop and go traffic for about 15 to 20 minutes and my trans temp rises to 180 to 195.

On the freeway, the temperature drops to 150 to 175 ish (Just driving - no towing). Stop and go traffic significantly spikes the trans temp. At least one time the temp read 210 degrees!

I found this link on the forum
http://www.pdrdiesel.com/oldsite/TempChart.htm, which shows that trans temps over 175 starts to break down transmission oil life. Additionally, a friend of mine showed me how to check error codes on my truck. My truck displayed error code P 0483 (Fan clutch speed).

My fan spins, but not at a high rate of speed. I see no difference in fan speed when the air conditioner is turned on, so I believe there truly is a problem with my fan. So here are my questions:

1. Is anyone else experiencing the same transmission temperatures? (Is it normal?)
2. Does the engine fan help cool the transmission cooler?

Sorry for the long post. Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

 

The temps you are seeing are normal. When the oil temp reaches 240-250 then the oil starts to break down. The engine fan only comes on for engine coolant temp and A/C pressure. If there is a code for the fan clutch then it may not lock up at all. Should look further into that. The engine fan does aid in cooling the trany only when it engages from the hi coolant temp or the a/c .

 

My 05 also has the P0483 error when using the key method to read codes. It does not give a CEL, and the temp stays right around 200 no matter if I am sitting in traffic for periods of time (which I did in Tampa) or pulling a 5th wheel. So if the fan spins ok, and it doesn't overheat, I see no reason to spend $175 for a new clutch. Just my thoughts. YMMV

 

Those temperatures are fine. The ATF+4 is synthetic and can take those temperatures no problem.

 

This is great news. Thanks for your responses!

 

ATF+4 is rated at 320 degrees for 1500 hours without breaking down, what your seeing is normal and no problems. I routinely see 220 towing at slow speeds with no problems. Change your fluid every 30-35k and your fine.

The fan code indicates the fan is not reacting like it should when it is demanded. They are a PWM system and are prone to failure. The mor eit runs at low speeds the more air will be pulled past the trans cooler and radiator. If the code continues look into replacing the fan for best results in hot weather.

 

My 05 did the exact same thing when I put the sender in the cooler line. I ended up putting 2 coolers on my truck 1 of them has a fan on it. I also took the sender out and put it in the pan. My temp hardly goes over 160 now.

 

Ya think??????

 

The temp you are reading is from the TC going to the coolers,I prefer this method let you know whats going on before the trans heats up-TC unlocked and the temps are higher 180* to 210* normal but after cooler and reading whats in the trans pan will be 150* to 180*,get yourself a trans fan/cooler set up from B+M,Derale so when temps climb you have extra cooling capacity

 

Thanks guys. Sounds like my transmission temps are normal. Turns out my fan clutch was faulty. My buddy replaced it for me today and cleared the fault code. I'll be towing my camping trailer this weekend, so I'll be able to see what kind of temps I run. I appreciate everyone's help!