
06-08-2006, 04:55 AM
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Hummer Veteran
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Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 201
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Re: Transmission Running Hot
I have read a lot about transmissions lately and would like to make some Preventive Maintenance suggestions that might help concerning overheating:
Transmission temp: a Lead Builder says 175 degrees. Another says Transmission lasts longest 175 degrees.
Excessive heat can cause the oil to break down: Leads to varnishing of internal parts, from the burnt oil, provides more resistance to internal bearing and clutch surfaces, Clutch material becomes softer and more prone to wear.
If your engine is running at say 210 constantly then expect your transmission to run the same as they are joined at the radiator in a stock configuration (supercharging makes and generates more heat ).
Transmissions have filters: The filter collects particles of Clutches and Small metal shavings. The oil supply is drawn from the pan so the oil supply will slow when the filter is clogged.
If your bands are out of adjustment overheating can occur.
If your oil lines are clogged expect overheating
If your exhaust is too close to the transmission expect increased temperatures.
If your Engine Exhaust is too restrictive (clogged cat converters) the engine temp can increase.
If you have internal wear of parts overheating is not uncommon.
What are some things you can do to prevent overheating?
Do your scheduled maintenance and in some conditions do it more often. If you go off road or tow often, consider it not normal condition as the transmission works harder thus building more heat.
Do your filter changes: a clean filter will keep your fluid moving unrestricted
Have the mechanic check band adjustments: As the clutches wear they need adjusted and clutches that are not properly adjusted and lead to heat buildup.
Supercharging = More heat keep an eye on your gauges and temperatures.
More fluid capacity means better temp control: additional coolers, larger oil pans, in line thermostats, etc. can help you control heat.
Consider separating the cooling of the Transmission and Engine coolers: Often the temps vary from engine and transmission the engine often runs 20 or 30 degrees hotter and this decreases transmission life. A word of caution if you live in cold areas Canada, Alaska, etc. The Radiator provides preheat for the transmission and you need it when your oil is colder. I would not recommend rerouting the Oil Supply from the radiator in this circumstance.
Keep the Radiator surface clean: Allowing the surface area to be clogged with dirt and debris hampers good heat transfer. Keep those cooling fins washed and clean as much as possible.
Go to your dealer and ask: See what the latest warranty claims have been about or even talk to the mechanic he works on them all the time. These guys are a valuable source of information and can really give you ideas in what to look for.
Exhaust Maintenance is important: Often we ignore the exhaust accept when it is leaking. Cats and exhausts can become clogged and internal passageways loose and broken. Thermal wrapping exhaust can keep heat away from transmissions. Replace suspected exhaust components or consider larger diameter exhausts. Consider rerouting exhaust systems.
After market additives can help reduce heat: There are some synthetic base oils that reduce friction and that leads to reduced heat.
Consider higher volume Fans, thermostats, and aftermarket Fan systems: After market fans and thermostats can make the engine and transmission run cooler providing more surface area temperature control.
Waiting till the problem is present can lead to damage that may require you to have the transmission rebuilt. While the list is not everything it can provide a good basis to start and some ideas to assist you. All said and done overheating may be a sign of internal damage and not a lot you can do about it accept Inspection and possibly rebuilding of the Transmission. Happy Motoring!
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