I've got a '04 DRW with some minor performance mods (see sig) and was wondering if there is any simple, relatively inexpensive transmission modifications or additions I should be considering to protect the auto-tranny and extend it's working life?

I plan on adding a levelling kit and 35" tires in the near future, and I realize these changes may also add some strain on the transmission. I'd like to re-enforce it but don't want to spring for a whole new unit.

Advice and suggestions appreciated.

 

Tranny temp guage is the cheapest thing to buy. Longevity depends on the temp your tranny operates in. The next thing you can do is a TC(Torque converter) and VB(Valve body) upgrade. Guys on here have used several different people. Goerend, ATS, DTT, HTS. You can also use the search function on the toolbar to search existing threads.

 

I've seen some ads for larger capacity oil pans; do these have any significant benifit in keeping the transmission cool?

 

I think the results are still out about a larger pan keeping the fluid cooler. BUT, the cast aluminum pans to reduce the amount of flex your trans case sees. And that alone is why I installed a PML.

 

The 48re has been upgraded from what the 47re was. With moderate power increases we have seen the valvebody and converter upgrade work very well. The pan definately helps the flex in the case and usually a small drop in temperatures.

 

I won't mention who but I was told buy MY tranny guy that I used ( a known name thrown around this site with a good reputation ) not to waist my money on a deep pan or a temp gauge. So, I didn't. Unless it takes you 30 minutes of low rpm manuevering to back up your trailer, or are towing an extreme load(20,000lbs) at very low speeds, you will never overheat the tranny.

 

Does anyone have an exploded diagram of this transmission, or something similar? I'd love to see how all this stuff goes together. I've spoken to my shop about getting the TC and VB upgrade done, but to tell you the truth I have no real understanding of what they are or how they function. I'll probably have them put on the oversize pan while they're under there, since it can't hurt.

 

I just installed the Mag-Hytec trans pan and have noticed a slight drop in temps. I added the pan because I snowplow with the truck and want to make sure the trans is nice and cool.

 

How about adding a switch to manually lock the torque converter? See this thread... https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...ad.php?t=84312

I've posted some questions to clarify a few things before I implement the setup described within.

Eric

 

drawing wont do squat when you try and learn how a tranny works...its crazy what goes on inside it. The torque converter has come a long ways in technology and I got left behind.

 

Heres a good explanation of torque converters...

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/torque-converter.htm

I love that site

 

Got it. I understand the concept of the TC, but the valve bodies are way beyond me.

What is considered the best aftermarket TC and VB combo for these trannies?

 

There have been many opinions presented here, try a search on the subject and make your own judgements.