Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) auto trans line upgrade

[CstlEng]

Does anyone have a suggestion for upgrading the hardlines on a '99 automatic?



I have now smoked 3 transmissions due to line failures (just passed 360K), and have caught others before they blead to death. Of the failures, 2 were due to a cracked flare fitting where the line enters (or leaves?) the heat excanger on the right side of the engine. The 3rd was due to 2 lines rubbing through each other.



I was wondering if anyone is aware of a replacement line kit, possibly using braided lines and associated hydraulic fittings. I can determine and specify pressure rating, hose type, fitting type, etc and have a set made; nevertheless, I also am happy to pay for a well researched/ thought out replacement that someone else has already put the effort into.



Thanks for your consideration.



Brian

 

[KKlingbeil]

I did replace one of the steel lines with a hydraulic line. The line I had trouble with runs from the heat exchanger on the engine to the front drivers side corner of the transmission. I used a JIC fitting on the heat exchanger. JIC is a 45 degree flare. I never checked to see if the heat exchanger is 45 or 37. 5, but the 45 JIC has been on there for three plus years and had NEVER leaked, so must be ok.



The other end if memory serves me is a 1/4" male pipe thread. I think I used a 90 degree fitting here that directly attached to the hydro line. A note, in order to use 1/4 pipe thread, you need to remove the brass fitting from the transmission. I believe I just used an old transmission line to get the length. Just take it with you when you go to get it made, and follow around the whole line, and maybe add 2 inches or so just to be safe.



I zip tied the new hydro line to the other steel line that runs around the transmission. Not a bad little project and has worked well for me.

 

[Grumpy John 4x4]

tran's lines

When I orders my Suncoast trans flex plate & TQ, I also ordered new lines, have not had a problem with the trans or the lines, Big Thanks to Mike at Inglewood trans in Fullerton Ca.

 

[CstlEng]

KKlingbeil,



Thanks for the info, I may end up doing just as you suggest. What type of hose did you use? Is "regular" hydraulic hose (eg the kind I use with fluid like rando 32)compatable with ATF+4?



Thanks

 

[CstlEng]

Grumpy John 4x4,



I will give suncoast a call and see what they suggest as well. I am somewhat predisposed to avoiding replacing with like type given my failure rate, but I won't ignor the guys with all the experience if they suggest otherwise.



Thank you.

 

[gathomas]

Trans Lines

Brian, for what it's worth I had a Hose company in Pittsburgh make a Stainless - "Seamless" line for me.



Factory lines are "flat rolled welded seam" vibration from our Engines can eventually fatigue the weld & leak.



Glen

 

[KKlingbeil]

CstlEng,

I used standard hydraulic line. I had it made at John Deere where they make the rest of my ag lines. I believe it was parker line, but any hydraulic line should be fine. You will want swivel fittings on both sides. .

 

[gathomas]

Trans Line

CstlEng,

I used standard hydraulic line. I had it made at John Deere where they make the rest of my ag lines. I believe it was parker line, but any hydraulic line should be fine. You will want swivel fittings on both sides. .

I'm inclined to agree with Kevin, I don't see any downside using hydraulic line, plus it has flexibility. can't rust or corrode plus it's got to be the best bang for the buck $$ especially compared to what the Dealer will charge for new lines !! Glen