Quote: H2 Ranger (FWIW My exhaust is in the same location and you stated the engine temp is normal right? )
Yes the engine temp stayed within it's normal range, while the trans displayed "Trans Hot" on the center console. By normal range I mean when the trans was at it's hottest the engine coolant never got more than the width of the needle above 210 however 185 is normal for my truck now with the 160 t-stat, so the engine coolant was affected by the hot trans.
However lets keep in mind my truck is far from "normal or stock" the S/C produces more heat, thats a given, a combination of a larger radiator, new high flow catalytic converters and 160-t-stat seam to have fixed the engine coolant run hot issue.
Depending on who you talk to about my previous run hot condition with the motor most are pointing to the catalytic converters being plugged and a continuing leaning condition being brought on by 1-3 clogged or partially plugged fuel injectors.
After having the passenger side head replaced because a valve guide got sucked into the head due to the motor running too lean and getting too hot on too many occasions, (although I argue the point too many) it was exactly 3 occasions and never driven for long under excessive heat but I guess that was enough to cause the problem. Having replaced the catalytic converts with higher or free flowing ones I probably could have gotten away with not going to the expense of changing the radiator or changing the t-stat, but it's done now and engine wise seams to be working correctly.
I don't think any one thing caused my truck to run hot. I think it's been a lot of things combined.
I'm just hoping the problem with the trans is easier to realize and solve.
Starting with a larger pan which will hold more fluid and a larger trans cooler if a place to locate it can be found I'm hopeful whatever is happening with the trans will be resolved.
The trans shifts fine, the trans operates at normal operating temps with city stop/go driving. There is no apparent slippage so I don't think anything internal is wrong, it's just getting too hot on steep or prolonged hill climbs.
Thanks again guys for all the suggestions
