Has anyone fitted an additional cooler to their auto trans? Notice any difference to response etc?

i know for one that mytsgt-whatever-the-number-is has. could try searching in his members machines thread i think a few others have also just dont remember who.
Fooz would be a suspect?

i know for one that mytsgt-whatever-the-number-is has. could try searching in his members machines thread i think a few others have also just dont remember who.
Fooz would be a suspect?

Nope not me. I've never had problems with the changes on my auto no matter how hard I drove it so still not convinced I need one.

shows how much attention i pay. i know dan has one though

Nope not me. I've never had problems with the changes on my auto no matter how hard I drove it so still not convinced I need one.

It is 2nd cab off the rank for me after the airbox mods. From what I hear it makes a huge difference to the life of your auto box and to the changes. Heat is our enemy!! I will update on it when I have had it done. Just out of interest Fooz, what tyres are you running? From memory you are on 19" rims?

It helps keep temps more stable when the "going gets tough",so its a bit of insurance for trans life.
Best mounted with brackets rather than hard up against the radiator or a/c condenser with those plastic jiggers.

It is 2nd cab off the rank for me after the airbox mods. From what I hear it makes a huge difference to the life of your auto box and to the changes. Heat is our enemy!! I will update on it when I have had it done. Just out of interest Fooz, what tyres are you running? From memory you are on 19" rims?

I'm running Yokohama Advan Sports 245/35/19, I went for something a bit grippier from the start but still spin up easy with the 163KW N/A through the auto.

I'm running Yokohama Advan Sports 245/35/19, I went for something a bit grippier from the start but still spin up easy with the 163KW N/A through the auto.
Mmm I hear the dollars tumbling out of your pocket for those lol. Out of interest how much did they cost?
I know that this is an old tyre test by I have been running the maxxis ma-z1 victra for a few years now. Check out the wheels stats on wet weather stuff (where the rubber really hits the road.........or not lol). Man they were heaps cheaper and excellent value for money. Now superceded by ma-z4s which is meant to be grippier and quiter than the z1's. Yet to try them but it may be worth a look for the future. BJ's get them in by the container load and are heaps cheaper than anyone else. Haggle with them though. I have only got some Toyo Proxes 4 on 225/55/17 as there was nil stock on the Maxxis. They arent too bad but not a patch on the Maxxis. Maybe I should have started a tyre thread.....might do that. I would be interested who runs what.
http://www.planetsoarer.com/06tyre/index.htm

Just had a look they dont do them in 19" at all bugger!!

Mmm I hear the dollars tumbling out of your pocket for those lol. Out of interest how much did they cost?
I know that this is an old tyre test by I have been running the maxxis ma-z1 victra for a few years now. Check out the wheels stats on wet weather stuff (where the rubber really hits the road.........or not lol). Man they were heaps cheaper and excellent value for money. Now superceded by ma-z4s which is meant to be grippier and quiter than the z1's. Yet to try them but it may be worth a look for the future. BJ's get them in by the container load and are heaps cheaper than anyone else. Haggle with them though. I have only got some Toyo Proxes 4 on 225/55/17 as there was nil stock on the Maxxis. They arent too bad but not a patch on the Maxxis. Maybe I should have started a tyre thread.....might do that. I would be interested who runs what.
http://www.planetsoarer.com/06tyre/index.htm

Not sure what they cost as I got the dealer to do the lot when I bought it & told them I wanted Yoko's not the Maxxis which they seem to fit if you don't say any different. I'm not looking forward to replacing them as I guess it would be in the 300's maybe even 400's? Will probably go a bit grippier compound again next time with the blower on so mega bucks will be my estimate!

No yokohamas in the tyre test, I thought they would be one of the top ranking in performance tyres :nuts:

hi. ive got a tranny cooler. you wont expierence any differnce in shifts etc. i mainly fitted one to help protect the tranny when it gets flogged.

I just replaced two Falken 245/40 R19s @ 390 each.

I just replaced two Falken 245/40 R19s @ 390 each.

Oh F*%K, I revise my estimate to 400's maybe 500's :iough:

Oh F*%K, I revise my estimate to 400's maybe 500's :iough:

Fooz (and others with 19" wheels),

I asked for advice a few weeks ago about some tyres advertised on Ebay, can't remember which thread and never got a reply.

Thing is, they are Kumho KU31 Ecsta SPTs going for $450 a pair, and from my experience (had a set of 225-50 17s on the old TE Magna) they are damn good tyres.

So at $225 a corner & freight & fitting they would work out a lot cheaper than whatever tyres you are looking at.

OK, they may not be quite as good, but they are still top quality tyres.

My main worry is the size, or more precisely the width. They are 255/35. Is that too wide for a 380 or not?

Check them out here:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/BRAND-NEW-255-35-19-KUMHO-KU31-TYRES-BMW-M3-L-K_W0QQitemZ260455109359QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Car_P arts_Accessories?hash=item3ca45592ef&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

KJ.

Fooz (and others with 19" wheels),

I asked for advice a few weeks ago about some tyres advertised on Ebay, can't remember which thread and never got a reply.

Thing is, they are Kumho KU31 Ecsta SPTs going for $450 a pair, and from my experience (had a set of 225-50 17s on the old TE Magna) they are damn good tyres.

So at $225 a corner & freight & fitting they would work out a lot cheaper than whatever tyres you are looking at.

OK, they may not be quite as good, but they are still top quality tyres.

My main worry is the size, or more precisely the width. They are 255/35. Is that too wide for a 380 or not?

Check them out here:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/BRAND-NEW-255-35-19-KUMHO-KU31-TYRES-BMW-M3-L-K_W0QQitemZ260455109359QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Car_P arts_Accessories?hash=item3ca45592ef&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

KJ.

I'd say too wide, you would need at least 8.5" - 9" rims which would shred your tyres on the guards.

Fooz (and others with 19" wheels),

I asked for advice a few weeks ago about some tyres advertised on Ebay, can't remember which thread and never got a reply.

Thing is, they are Kumho KU31 Ecsta SPTs going for $450 a pair, and from my experience (had a set of 225-50 17s on the old TE Magna) they are damn good tyres.

So at $225 a corner & freight & fitting they would work out a lot cheaper than whatever tyres you are looking at.

OK, they may not be quite as good, but they are still top quality tyres.

My main worry is the size, or more precisely the width. They are 255/35. Is that too wide for a 380 or not?

Check them out here:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/BRAND-NEW-255-35-19-KUMHO-KU31-TYRES-BMW-M3-L-K_W0QQitemZ260455109359QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Car_P arts_Accessories?hash=item3ca45592ef&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

KJ.

make sure you check when they were made and that you are not getting old stock with hardened compound. Tyres do have a "shelf life" as you prob are aware. If you dont know where to look I will let you know.

Oh F*%K, I revise my estimate to 400's maybe 500's :iough:

I just priced the Maxxis MA-Z1 Victra from Bob Jane 245/35/19 and they are $249 each. I have run them on my Liberty and still have them on there. They are great value for money. I dont know how they would stack up against the Yokos but they are a helluvalot cheaper!!

Hey Fooz if you have the money you could always put these on!!
http://www.yokohama.com.au/ourtyres/tyrereviews.aspx?tyreid=208#review79

Hey Fooz if you have the money you could always put these on!!
http://www.yokohama.com.au/ourtyres/tyrereviews.aspx?tyreid=208#review79

Yeah I had some semi slicks like that on an early RX7. Gobbs of grip but noisy and uncomfortable.But you buy them for the grip at the end of the day!They used to get that sticky that when I changed lanes the tyres would pick up all the crap in the middle of the lanes and throw it up in the wheel arches.Kinda sounded like i was driving on dirt!

Yeah I had some semi slicks like that on an early RX7. Gobbs of grip but noisy and uncomfortable.But you buy them for the grip at the end of the day!They used to get that sticky that when I changed lanes the tyres would pick up all the crap in the middle of the lanes and throw it up in the wheel arches.Kinda sounded like i was driving on dirt!
Sounds like a slick when you get off line in the marbles:woot:

Sounds like a slick when you get off line in the marbles:woot:

Exactly!

:bump: Just thought I would send this out again. For those who have transmission coolers can you give your thoughts on the RPW claims "Fitment of an aftermarket transmission cooler, of virtually any design, will improve transmission life and responsiveness by over 100%. The vehicle will shift more consistantly, be more reliable and cost a lot less to repair in the future"
Has anyone found this to be accurate in regard to shift and responsiveness? Out to you guys!!

:bump: Just thought I would send this out again. For those who have transmission coolers can you give your thoughts on the RPW claims "Fitment of an aftermarket transmission cooler, of virtually any design, will improve transmission life and responsiveness by over 100%. The vehicle will shift more consistantly, be more reliable and cost a lot less to repair in the future"
Has anyone found this to be accurate in regard to shift and responsiveness? Out to you guys!!

yea, I would like to know as well.

This thread has gone so far off topic, I was starting to think I was reading the tyre thread lol.

Wow. No wonder RPW are not always well-regarded! Their claim, highlighted in the post above would be impossible to verify (which in my suspicious mind makes it meaningless). 100% of what? Measured how?

I am tempted to put a trans cooler on my KJ, possibly very soon. I expect I'll be using a 2nd gen trans cooler from the wreckers, modded-in much the same way as many members have already done. About the ONLY way I can imagine you could assess the effect of a tranny cooler would be to examine trans fluid at regular intervals pre-fitment and after fitment of the trans cooler, and assess whether the cooler keeps the fluid in better condition. Rest assured, I won't be conducting this analysis.

EDIT: I am not against trans coolers, and think they have more potential to do good than harm. Just think the statement about their benefits is pure unsubstantiated marketing hype. they may as well say "give us your money, all your money".

Wow. No wonder RPW are not always well-regarded! Their claim, highlighted in the post above would be impossible to verify (which in my suspicious mind makes it meaningless). 100% of what? Measured how?

I am tempted to put a trans cooler on my KJ, possibly very soon. I expect I'll be using a 2nd gen trans cooler from the wreckers, modded-in much the same way as many members have already done. About the ONLY way I can imagine you could assess the effect of a tranny cooler would be to examine trans fluid at regular intervals pre-fitment and after fitment of the trans cooler, and assess whether the cooler keeps the fluid in better condition. Rest assured, I won't be conducting this analysis.

That is why I put their exact quote in here. The benefits of a transmission cooler is widely documented for towing but is there any real benefits, as touted by RPW, in your everyday drive. I will be getting one because I will be towing a camper trailer, but I still am interested in those who are running them at present. Rest assured I will be noting any difference when I get mine fitted, and posting it here.

I have one on order only coz of the large increase in torque from the blower going threw it.

If I was N/A still I think I would need convincing to actually do it.

I got one just to protect the trans

I noticed the last cruise I did with AMC the box was rough after a drive through the RNP

its only new so we will wait and see how it goes

I have a road trip in aweek down to melbourne and we will see how the trans copes with 8 hrs non stop

I have one on order only coz of the large increase in torque from the blower going threw it.

If I was N/A still I think I would need convincing to actually do it.

..unless towing something eh?

..unless towing something eh?

Yeah but bit hard to tow without a towbar!! Thats what the Pajero Turbo Diesel is for.

Yeah but bit hard to tow without a towbar!! Thats what the Pajero Turbo Diesel is for.

What a stable! The thoroughbred and the Clydesdale !!lol

Yeah I may fit one after the trip I've just been on! About 4hrs each way with 2 adults, three kids,boot chocka's and a not so aerodynamic box trailer out the back had the tranny working for sure.The car ran well ,sitting on 110,and had plenty of grunt to overtake but on the return trip the tippy would not kick back when asked and when it kicked back while in auto it would hold that gear too long in my opinion and the tippy wouldn't let me change back up.So I think a cooler might have been helpful in this case? Oh and for economy, hows 17.5 sound!

BAH I have not got to 17s for a while

Tippy is so tempermental after a workout so it will be interesting to see what difference the cooler makes when I go to melbourne the LONG way

My fluid was golden BROWN with some real dark brown artifacts suspended before last power flush (Tuesday)

But tranny will take more abuse as it is cooler, a drive in traffic on wednesday proved that it was worth the $150 bucks delivered

Ah, so the tippy thing is not uncommon,good to know!

Yeah I may fit one after the trip I've just been on! About 4hrs each way with 2 adults, three kids,boot chocka's and a not so aerodynamic box trailer out the back had the tranny working for sure.The car ran well ,sitting on 110,and had plenty of grunt to overtake but on the return trip the tippy would not kick back when asked and when it kicked back while in auto it would hold that gear too long in my opinion and the tippy wouldn't let me change back up.So I think a cooler might have been helpful in this case? Oh and for economy, hows 17.5 sound!

Damn that is really high. I get around 10.5 with the camper trailer on 3 up and driving miss daisy. You really have to change your driving a bit when you are towing and look at lowering your speeds a bit if you want to get better economy. I know its a pain and you feel like a mobile chicane but I guess that goes with the territory when it comes to towing. It also puts more load on your tranny. With the money you save on fuel you can take the family out to dinner lol

Nah tippy thing is common HEAT IS THE ENEMY

Sorry about thread mining :)

Just curious to know if the TMR 380 has a transmission cooler?

I think it did, but I'm sure those better in the know will confirm soon-as.

I went a slightly different way with my car and fitted a first generation cooler ($29) the other week. From everything I could see there doesn't seem to be any difference size wise to the 2nd gen cooler but the advantage is the 1st gen doesn't have the metal pipes that have to be cut or modified it just has the 5/16' fittings which you can slip a trans hose straight onto.

The reason I wanted to do this is to keep the cooler lines away from the exhaust manifold and also keep the lines pretty short, so I mounted my cooler on the passenger side and ran it in series (after) the radiator trans cooler.

Seems to be working well so far and for $29 plus a bit of trans oil and hose a very cheap mod.

Sorry about thread mining :)

Just curious to know if the TMR 380 has a transmission cooler?


Nope *

Mines still sitting here on my desk, I must get it fitted asap, just had the tranny flushed last week at my 45k service & they gave me some extra fluid to top it up once the cooler goes on.

Just a few questions on tranny cooler
1. Connect before radiator cooler or after ?
2. coupling size?
3. best value for money ?
The reason I ask is that as the weather has been heating up(for you none south aussies its been bloody hot over here lately) it seem my tranmition has been getting very sluggish what with the stop and start i do in city traffic.Try it in tip mode and I ask it to change up and it seems to do it when it feels like it ,very frustrating.some input would be good.

I got mine of ebay made by PWR (AU FTW)

I got a bigger size (the V8)

I think it its after the rad and the coupling size I forget

Its is well worth it though

I got mine off Ebay too, same spec as yours but not PWR.

The fittings are 5/16" & yep I think after is the way to go.

I am sooooooo glad I had mine fitted today as we travelled from near Coffs Harbour to home (5 hours) towing a camper in temps up to 39 degrees! Mine is a canadian one that I bought off ebay. Doesnt have the fine finning that the PWR has so you can clean it alot more easily from all the bugs.

I am sooooooo glad I had mine fitted today as we travelled from near Coffs Harbour to home (5 hours) towing a camper in temps up to 39 degrees! Mine is a canadian one that I bought off ebay. Doesnt have the fine finning that the PWR has so you can clean it alot more easily from all the bugs.

Thats the one I have.

Thats the one I have.

Yeah the auto transmission guy that fitted mine reckons that he has both PWR and the Canadian one on his vehicles and has no problems with either after years but he says that the Canadian one is more robust and better made. Shame would have preferred the Aussie built one.

My mech said the other way round LOL

at the end of the day though it is better to have one than to no have one

Too true. The guy that fitted mine was an auto tranny fella only and been in the game for years. Again it could come down to personal experience. He did have both types on his vehicles so the PWR couldnt be that bad!

I was very happy I had one fitted

On the cruise today outside temps up round 45C plus couple of hours cruising woul have destroy my shifts without a cooler

Still smooth a silk even with some manual action

So if you have not done it yet do it do it NOW (or at least be soon)

I was very happy I had one fitted

On the cruise today outside temps up round 45C plus couple of hours cruising woul have destroy my shifts without a cooler

Still smooth a silk even with some manual action

So if you have not done it yet do it do it NOW (or at least be soon)

+1 Mecha. They reckon that the auto boxes heat up quickly esp under load and it is that extra heat that hardens the seals and stuffs your box. Cheap insurance folks. If you have an auto, do it!

The last major cruise was in winter and my box was knotchy after about 20 mins and that was ambient of 20c yet this last cruise ambient was 45c but road was probably 50c+

I got quoted between $500-$600 to fit a PWR transmission cooler...which I thought was a freakin rip off!

How much did it cost you guys to fit a trans cooler?

150 bucks off ebay plus fit and trans flush 150

300 bucks

Mine was around $60 off ebay and it cost $215 to fit. You are spot on Braedz they just want a Christmas bonus for themselves. make sure you get the right size one and right size fittings too.

On a related note, does anyone know if the transmission oil pump would have enough grunt to supply both the existing radiator cooler plus the new external oil cooler and an inline oil filter ?

cant see why not ?? but depends on size of the external cooler

I run a PWR V8 cooler which is huge compared to the PWR V6 cooler and it does fine but I dont a external in line filter

If in doubt speak to a TRANS SPECIALIST and they will let you know if it can be done plus pros and cons of the setup

cant see why not ?? but depends on size of the external cooler

I run a PWR V8 cooler which is huge compared to the PWR V6 cooler and it does fine but I dont a external in line filter

If in doubt speak to a TRANS SPECIALIST and they will let you know if it can be done plus pros and cons of the setup

hi mecha - im booked to get tranny cooler in and still investigating which one to put in - is V8 ok in NSW - i m asking if its not getting the oil too cold in winter time.

cant see why not ?? but depends on size of the external cooler

I run a PWR V8 cooler which is huge compared to the PWR V6 cooler and it does fine but I dont a external in line filter

If in doubt speak to a TRANS SPECIALIST and they will let you know if it can be done plus pros and cons of the setup

is the one you have this one?
PWRO-CV8 PWR - Aluminium Transmission Cooler
280 X 200x 19mm (3/8 Barb)

I cant remember but I have not had any problems

Prettymuch any cooler that will fit (and there are various places one can be fitted) will be fine.

There are no regulations regarding trnsmission coolers in any state.

In this climate (aust) you will not run into any issues regarding the trans running too cool, v8 cooler or otherwise.

Unless you are towing do you really need one??

Correct Chris - unless you drive it hard for extended periods or tow super heavy stuff one is not required.

We put them through extremely harsh testing in 40+ degree temps in as built configuration prior to mass production.

Correct Chris - unless you drive it hard for extended periods or tow super heavy stuff one is not required.

We put them through extremely harsh testing in 40+ degree temps in as built configuration prior to mass production.

So most of the AMC 380 auto owners must be a real bunch of rev heads, as just about all of them reckon that without a cooler the trans overheats & acts up.

(Just stirring as a 380 manual driver who has never had the faintest hint of transmission problems!)

I drive my 380 pretty hard in fact I average 14 on suburban trips. I have driven many different vehicles for the last 40 something years and cannot fault the auto in this car.

Correct Chris - unless you drive it hard for extended periods or tow super heavy stuff one is not required.

We put them through extremely harsh testing in 40+ degree temps in as built configuration prior to mass production.

The secret to the longevity of automatic transmission is to keep the transmission fluid cool, fresh and clean. You don't want to be in a situation where you cause trans fluid to burn. It reduces the trans fluid life, and eventually the trans itself. For some people its is not a necessity. The rule of thumb is the bigger the car/motor with the heavier the load it becomes an "insurance" option for your trans.


I drive my 380 pretty hard in fact I average 14 on suburban trips. I have driven many different vehicles for the last 40 something years and cannot fault the auto in this car.
Me too. I've driven Mitsi cars throughout the entire production life from Sigmas onwards. Auto gearboxes are usually fine. But like I said above, it doesn't hurt to have a backup plan. A trans cooler DIY job is cheap insurance and only will take you an afternoon to do.

So most of the AMC 380 auto owners must be a real bunch of rev heads, as just about all of them reckon that without a cooler the trans overheats & acts up.

(Just stirring as a 380 manual driver who has never had the faintest hint of transmission problems!)

You stirrer you...lol...Manual drivers have it easy.

You stirrer you...lol...Manual drivers have it easy.

We also have more fun too!

Put it this way guys - there is not one 380 on the roads in australia that has been put through the abuse to which the development mules were subjected.....

Put it this way guys - there is not one 380 on the roads in australia that has been put through the abuse to which the development mules were subjected.....

...... even the Supercharged ones?

MMAL have not seen me drive then

Put it this way guys - there is not one 380 on the roads in australia that has been put through the abuse to which the development mules were subjected.....


please elaborate...I am fascinated.

Ones modified away from stock of course are excepted. (the supercharger kit is not an oem unit and as such the engine/trans was not subjected to the same type of testing as if it was oem)

But in unmodified trim - none of you have come close to the abuse dished out during development testing - guarranteed.

Ones modified away from stock of course are excepted. (the supercharger kit is not an oem unit and as such the engine/trans was not subjected to the same type of testing as if it was oem)

But in unmodified trim - none of you have come close to the abuse dished out during development testing - guarranteed.

MS-75 - so if i am getting it right - you are saying that there is no need to install tranny cooler at all as it should be factory perfect - only performance and towing users.

Correct (Provided the transmission is serviced as stipulated in the service schedule, using the specified fluid of course)

Correct (Provided the transmission is serviced as stipulated in the service schedule, using the specified fluid of course)

the book says 95,000 km to service the gear box - there is another tread about this topic but why not ;-)... do you think this is substantial or maybe too optimistic from Mits? i think its too optimistic - mine has 67,000 and the fluid is brownish... its still good 30k short... and it drives well but as you could read from other members (no hard core mods tho) - the main difference is after long hot days drives where it suffers - what you think

I also had Magna TJ 2001 for almost a year (have done 22k on it - eventually sold with 166k) - and... the gear box started to feel funny in hot weather... the gear ratios where a bit different as i used to be. when changing gears it was reving too much and then funny kick to next gear.... but otherwise nice car...

MS-75 - so if i am getting it right - you are saying that there is no need to install tranny cooler at all as it should be factory perfect - only performance and towing users.




Correct (Provided the transmission is serviced as stipulated in the service schedule, using the specified fluid of course)


If that is the case I will not be wasting my time doing this modification.

Thanks for your expert advice based on factory experience.

If that is the case I will not be wasting my time doing this modification.

Thanks for your expert advice based on factory experience.

Providing that MS-75 is a factory expert i will not waste my time and funds on it either - MS-75 can you confirm?

Schedule is - automatic transmission fluid replacement at 105,000kms or at 45,000kms if the vehicle is being used under severe use conditions.

Severe Use = Frequent short run operation, more than 50% of driving in heavy city traffic, prolonged idling or stop-start driving, sustained high speed driving in temperatures above 32C, driving in dusty, sandy or salty conditions, continuous operation at higher than normal loading, e.g. towing

Most cars on here would qualify for the severe use clause, and supercharged ones should really use a cooler.

EDIT, SMARC78 - yes - professional MMAL worker.

Schedule is - automatic transmission fluid replacement at 105,000kms or at 45,000kms if the vehicle is being used under severe use conditions.

Severe Use = Frequent short run operation, more than 50% of driving in heavy city traffic, prolonged idling or stop-start driving, sustained high speed driving in temperatures above 32C, driving in dusty, sandy or salty conditions, continuous operation at higher than normal loading, e.g. towing

Most cars on here would qualify for the severe use clause, and supercharged ones should really use a cooler.

so isnt it worth then to prolongue the period and life by installing cooler than? we are driving in more than 30C and the engine heat is well over that even after a short ride? I am still puzled - is this advice a book advice or an expert advise?

I had mine flushed at 70 000km. I do mostly short trips to work. I noticed an improvement in the smoothness of the change straight away. (maybe placebo effect)

I had mine flushed at 70 000km. I do mostly short trips to work. I noticed an improvement in the smoothness of the change straight away. (maybe placebo effect)

have you got tranny cooler?

It's pretty simple guys - during endurance testing, specific targets are set for components/assemblies etc under certain conditions.

Ultimately, following endurance testing, development cars were run and serviced according to the schedule which was set following the primary testing to make sure that production models will reach the intended/set mileage goals out in the field.

The gearboxes stay within the tolerances set by MMAL/MMC when the service advice is adhered to.

It's that simple.

As an example, if perhaps the targets had been set higher, it may have ended up with a trans cooler - it all comes down to the original specifications.

If you want to add one - by all means do so - all I am trying to educate you on is the fact that when used in the specified way, the system does not require a cooler to remain inside factory spec.

EDIT - FYI - the 32 degrees refers to ambient temperature, not engine temperature. High temp, high speed running was carried out in the north of SA and the NT, and you know how hot it gets up there......

have you got tranny cooler?
No. Was going to get one fitted when I was keen and new like you but my mechanic advised only if I was towing. Which I dont.

The only time I have had something weird happen to the trans was when I was on one of the MMX cruises using tippy. After about 20mins of driving hard with the tippy, the car would no longer change gears in tippy mode. Putting it back in Drive it ran fine though. Strange?

I'd have to ask someone Braedz - or I may have the info - but my guess would be that is an over temp safety measure.

I'd have to ask someone Braedz - or I may have the info - but my guess would be that is an over temp safety measure.

MS-75 - with all the respect and no offence even considered - are you mechanic or where are you getting this knowledge about Mitsubishi endurance tests etc.

I'd have to ask someone Braedz - or I may have the info - but my guess would be that is an over temp safety measure.

So in your expert opinion, would you also "guess" a trans cooler most likely have helped keep everything within factory spec for Braedz on this occasion?

No mate - I'm not a mechanic.

At MMAL I was a production/manufacturing engineer and worked on mass production of the 380.

As a result of direct experience and information from peers/colleagues I have a relatively good knowledge of the 380, from design and testing through to shipment of finished cars.

I currently work with 5 ex senior MMAL engineers - one of whom was a manager in development.

Ideal ATF operating temperature range is about 150-180 F. Do some temperature measuring before you put on a non thermostat controlled ATF cooler.

Some synthetic ATFs go much higher:
"SynLube™ UNIVERSAL ATF is a synergetic blend of man-made liquid and solid chemically inert lubricants that are thermally stable from -65°F (-54°C) to over 520°F (270°C)."

Don't know if this stuff is any good in a Mitsu transmission though. But you get the idea.

No mate - I'm not a mechanic.

At MMAL I was a production/manufacturing engineer and worked on mass production of the 380.

As a result of direct experience and information from peers/colleagues I have a relatively good knowledge of the 380, from design and testing through to shipment of finished cars.

I currently work with 5 ex senior MMAL engineers - one of whom was a manager in development.

thanks MS-75 - i really appreciate your inside knowledge. can you also answer (different topic) - does the installing of Berklee muffler void the new car warranty? thx

Vehicle cooling system tests used by manufacturers during the vehicle development process would resemble the following:

1) 40km/hr, 10% incline, maximum towing capacity, 35degC ambient temp
2) 80km/hr, 5% incline, 35degC ambient temp
3) 120km/hr, 3% incline, 40degC ambient temp
4) 160km/hr. 0% incline, 40degC ambient temp
5) 180km/hr, 0% incline, 40degC ambient temp

Due to the ambient temperatures called for, the vehicles would be tested with their air conditioners on and in high sun load conditions.
Throughout all of these tests, the vehicles engine coolant, engine oil and transmission fluid must not exceed permissible limits.

Limits for each of these would likely be around:
- engine coolant = 110degC
- engine oil = 150degC
- transmission fluid = 145degC

Only if you are operating outside these conditions or exceeding these limits would you need to consider modifying the cooling systems on the vehicle.

Vehicle cooling system tests used by manufacturers during the vehicle development process would resemble the following:

1) 40km/hr, 10% incline, maximum towing capacity, 35degC ambient temp
2) 80km/hr, 5% incline, 35degC ambient temp
3) 120km/hr, 3% incline, 40degC ambient temp
4) 160km/hr. 0% incline, 40degC ambient temp
5) 180km/hr, 0% incline, 40degC ambient temp

Due to the ambient temperatures called for, the vehicles would be tested with their air conditioners on and in high sun load conditions.
Throughout all of these tests, the vehicles engine coolant, engine oil and transmission fluid must not exceed permissible limits.

Limits for each of these would likely be around:
- engine coolant = 110degC
- engine oil = 150degC
- transmission fluid = 145degC

Only if you are operating outside these conditions or exceeding these limits would you need to consider modifying the cooling systems on the vehicle.

thanks garage-tuner - although I have no capacity to test this on my car apart of temp indicator on the dash board.

I pose a question.

So when we do give our autos a hard time & they get hot & start changing randomly & holding gears, what is the actual cause of this??

1/ The mechanical function of the auto on overheating?
2/ The electronics sensing the overheating & just doing some weird shit to protect itself.
or 3/ The fluid is breaking down?

If 3, is it worth trying some super synthetic stuff that meets Mitsubishis ATF specs & beyond? I have a cooler & can still make it play up when I give it a prolonged caining with the blower, I'd just like to know the cure besides installing a cooler the same size as the cars radiator lol

I pose a question.

So when we do give our autos a hard time & they get hot & start changing randomly & holding gears, what is the actual cause of this??

1/ The mechanical function of the auto on overheating?
2/ The electronics sensing the overheating & just doing some weird shit to protect itself.
or 3/ The fluid is breaking down?

If 3, is it worth trying some super synthetic stuff that meets Mitsubishis ATF specs & beyond? I have a cooler & can still make it play up when I give it a prolonged caining with the blower, I'd just like to know the cure besides installing a cooler the same size as the cars radiator lol

Fooz,

Prolly not a very helpful answer, but chuck a manual trans in your beast (with LSD) and you'll never have a transmission problem again.

Unless you fry the clutch.

We are still waiting for the first ever manual S/C 380, and I reckon you doing a manual conversion is more likely than me chucking on a S/C!

Fooz,

Prolly not a very helpful answer, but chuck a manual trans in your beast (with LSD) and you'll never have a transmission problem again.

Unless you fry the clutch.

We are still waiting for the first ever manual S/C 380, and I reckon you doing a manual conversion is more likely than me chucking on a S/C!

lol only one problem with that. I'm traditionally not an auto man but the 380 auto with some decent torque behind it is a beautiful effortless drive & besides I reckon my Supercharged auto would get better economy than your manual on the highway still :P ...... (except over Mt Nebo last Sat night, close to a 1/4 of a tank :ninja:)

lol only one problem with that. I'm traditionally not an auto man but the 380 auto with some decent torque behind it is a beautiful effortless drive & besides I reckon my Supercharged auto would get better economy than your manual on the highway still :P ...... (except over Mt Nebo last Sat night, close to a 1/4 of a tank :ninja:)

Since when are we worried about fuel economy????

Put it this way guys - there is not one 380 on the roads in australia that has been put through the abuse to which the development mules were subjected.....

I somehow don't believe that. Did the abuse you inflicted accumulate to a real world 80,000km+ with a P plater driving? Because I am completely prepared for my gearbox to go bang spot on 100,000km lol

I did it as a insurance policy for my tranny

I noticed that 2hr jaunts in stop start traffic and the box is clunky as hell
adding the cooler keeps it feeling smoother longer and that is my foot and butt feeling it

(yes I drive bare foot)

I did it as a insurance policy for my tranny

I noticed that 2hr jaunts in stop start traffic and the box is clunky as hell
adding the cooler keeps it feeling smoother longer and that is my foot and butt feeling it

(yes I drive bare foot)
Thank god you dont drive bare butt!!! Imagine the condition of the leather

I pose a question.

So when we do give our autos a hard time & they get hot & start changing randomly & holding gears, what is the actual cause of this??

1/ The mechanical function of the auto on overheating?
2/ The electronics sensing the overheating & just doing some weird shit to protect itself.
or 3/ The fluid is breaking down?

If 3, is it worth trying some super synthetic stuff that meets Mitsubishis ATF specs & beyond? I have a cooler & can still make it play up when I give it a prolonged caining with the blower, I'd just like to know the cure besides installing a cooler the same size as the cars radiator lol


I think most likely answer is the fluid breaking down, or foaming.

Ok well might try to find a good fully synthetic alternative that complies to the Mitsubishi standards & throw that in when the LSD goes in.

I'd be very concerned if its the fluid breaking down under these circumstances.

Thank god you dont drive bare butt!!! Imagine the condition of the leather
Waaaay too much desc there Chris esp just after dinner lol

Oh Chris

Fooz there is a Castrol product and Royal Purple as well with SPIII

Fooz there is a Castrol product and Royal Purple as well with SPIII

I was looking today, there is quite a number of brands that have a SP-III rated synthetic fluid.

Don't know which one yet but I think I will be adventurous when I put the LSD in & try one.

Madmagna uses the castrol I believe

I Know this is an old thread but I'm thinking of adding a tans cooler to my 380 and was wondering if this cooler I found on e-bay will do the job?

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Universal-Auto-Trans-Cooler-Kit-Transmission-Oil-19x33x2cm-Suits-V8-6Cyl-/400857724825?hash=item5d54fb7799:g:wgQAAOSwmrlU0yE r

No, that cooler wont fit you need a cooler with 5/16th barbs that one is the more common 3/8th. That looks like a no name kit , make sure you get one that is a brand name such as Hayden, PWR etc. The better more modern cooler have fins as well that is the older cheaper type.

Thanks slowtl for the advice, so would this fit?

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/PWR-Small-5-16-8mm-Automatic-Transmission-Plate-Fin-Oil-Cooler-110x280x19-Barb-/140671401231?hash=item20c0ab3d0f:g:OrcAAOSw-jhUE9bj

One more thing, would you go in series with the radiator or by-pass it?

I would not bypass the radiator, I didn't bypass it on my Tl magna or my 380. I did a lot of research on this before I did. I did the 380 without taking the front bumper off . I put a cooler in my TL when I was replacing the front bumper but you could do it by removing one grill from the bumper. I hope this helps.