Trans oil coolers

[StarPD]

Opinions please.

I understand that oil coolers are strongly recommended for Q45 trannys.My 2005 Q45 will be operated in Phoenix, where high temps are common for over 5 months across the summer.

But, I do not operate in rush hour traffic, do not haul heavy loads, don't usually pull severe grades in summer, and only put on around 10k miles per year. I have the transmission flushed once a year by the dealer.Is a trans cooler still required for max transmission life? Will yearly changes in trans fluid protect the trans well enough?

If a cooler is absolutely required for these conditions, which one is recommended, and where is the best location for it?

Thanks.

[lino]

I think that having a cooler will most likely help. By how much I don't know. Heat is a big problem. If all the oils/fluids are running cooler, I would think that would lead to longevity. What also helps is that you service your car very well, are not abusing it and are not living in a rough climate/environment. Ultimately, I'd put one.

I have one on my 91 Q and fluid flushes are a once-a-year routine.

Good Luck!

[Skibane]

Part of the problem is that excessive heat degrades the seals in the transmission. Although replacing the fluid on a frequent basis helps to ensure that it continues to provide adequate lubrication, it does nothing to rejuvenate the seals. So, a transmission that runs hot will usually fail sooner than a well-cooled transmission, regardless of how often you replace the fluid.

Still, flushing the fluid on a yearly basis should help some, particularly if you're using synthetic ATF.

Do you plan on keeping the vehicle for 5+ years?

[statichead2k]

A transmission cooler is the only mod my car has. I am in Tucson so it gets pretty hot.My thoughts are that this car is big and heavy with a lot of power, so the transmission is going to get stressed every once in a while. TA rebuilt trans is pretty expensive, more than I paid for the car probably. The transmission cooler is cheap 70-80 for a really big one, and pretty easy to install, if a bit messy. I viewed it as a cheap way to extend the life of the transmission.