Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 2000 Dodge NV4500 Transmission Temp 5th Gear

[ColtBarney]

I bought a 2000 Dodge six months ago, the first time I towed with it was two days ago. I have an Edge Juice W/Attitude chip and a 4" MRBP exhaust on it which I installed three months ago. I am towing a small/light toyhauler only 6,000 pounds and 25 ft long. I noticed my JTFT temperature was climbing and got up to 239 at one point, I down shifted and the temperature started dropping eventually getting down to 187 after 15 minutes of driving in fourth gear with the RPM's around 2,700 (I maintained the same speed I was at in 5th gear approximately 72MPH). What would cause such a dramatic drop by down shifting? Outside temperature was approximately 85, flat terrain and my transmission temperature sensor is installed in the plate.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

In fifth you are running power through the cluster gear and back up to the mainshaft. Fourth is direct drive, from the input straight through the mainshaft so there is less frictional loss. Trans temp will be less with Trans Coolers from Geno's and using either Castrol Syntorq or Torco RTF.

 

[ColtBarney]

Ok so what is a normal temperature range for this transmission?

 

[jmos4]

Hi,

I know I have done it as well, but techincally you shouldn't tow in 5th being its not a direct gear and might also cause the nut in the trans to loosen as well, not sure on temps, but I have seen manual transmission cook fluid (friend with a 97 Power Stroke smelled lovely)

Regards,

 

[AH64ID]

I don't feel 239° is anything to be worried about. I would consider 275-300° starting to be too hot.

I would verify fluid level in both the trans and transfer case.

If you want to drop the temps then the FAST coolers might be an option.