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auto transmission upgrade?

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Metal Valve Stems - Dually

Superhitch Receiver and Torklifts on 06 Ram 3500

Greetings one and all.

Need groups advice on wether I should up grade transmission or just run what I have. We bought a 32 foot Carriage 5th wheel this year around 10. 000 LBS. Loaded. I have a '92 one ton dully. My transmission temp gauge is reading around 220-230 on long climbs,water temp gauge running in high safe range.



Should I up grade the t/c and throttle body or this about normal for the stock transmission, Getting around 11. 5 m. p. g. overall when towing ?



Thanks in advance

MR. Lucky
 
Yup!! Can't go wrong with a DTT transmission. 220-230 seems a little hot to me, and prolly not good on your trans. .



Robin
 
DD doesn't do them anymore, you would probably get redirected to me. For stock, that isn't out of range. A better converter, and synthetic will bring the temps down. Do you have a second cooler yet?
 
my understanding has been the hotter the fluid the less it will last so a good synthetic and a cooler should help. i saw a chart for temp to mileage but i don't know where it is
 
Second cooler

Don't have the second cooler yet.



Will any of the coolers work ? Thought I would install one ahead of the original and then back into the original one. Does this seem correct? How much would a better t/c run installed ? thanks for the replys.
 
run thing you might think about is an inline cooler i looked at them and they seem interesting might try it. i know where are going to put one on my cousins hot 390 w/ built c6 so ill let ya'll know if yer interested
 
I really like my DTT, it locks up in 2nd, 3rd, and of course overdrive. If your not locking up the torque converter, your using some of your power to produce heat. I never see over 180 degrees unless I'm plowing snow in 4 wheel high and slow speeds, ie: too much time in first gear and not locked up. Secondary transmission coolers don't make sense to me, get a valve body upgrade, torque converter upgrade. DTT sells a Smart Controller as an option with their transmissions, it allows you to set the shift and lockup points to complement your driving needs / style, it's really sweet. Heat problems should disappear after a good rebuild, no matter which transmission rebuilder you choose. Do your research, this is the second biggest purchase you can make for your truck after changing motors of course. With a truck that old, you may just want to look at something newer. I see your mileage is still low, maybe a transmission upgrade / rebuild is a viable option for you, it's still sad that we all have to do these things to our trucks, with motors this strong it seems a shame we have to do what we have to do.



Good luck.



Kevin
 
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I agree with KWheatony. When I had a second transmission cooler installed by DTT they told me that they had found and removed an unnecessary check valve. With the improved oil flow and the second cooler my transmission seldom approaches 180. The DTT mods with the Smart Box will slow you to set your shift points and keep the torque converter locked up over a range of rpm so your exhaust brake will slow your rig and not overheat the transmission.
 
OK, he has a 92 which does not have a locking TC. I question the trailer only weighing 10K. My 29 ft Cardinal weighs 11250 with modest load. I had a 93 RAM and it had no brakes at all. I would think your best bet is to send the 92 down the road and find a good used 2001. 5 or 2002 2nd gen truck (Rear disc brakes). You get a locking TC, and with any luck you might find one with a custom transmission already in the truck. Then you can think about an exhaust brake. SNOKING
 
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CAMEO LXI - Fifth Wheel F32RLS

Approx. Exterior Length 32' 11"

Approx. Exterior Width 96""

Approx. Exterior Height w/AC 12' 8"

Approx. Dry Axle Weight (lb)* 8,320

Approx. Hitch Weight (lb)* 2,180

Approx. Total Dry Weight (lb)* 10,500

Approx. Average Load Capacity (lb)* 3,680

Axles (number of ) 2

Fresh Water Capacity w/ Water Heater ** 70 Gal.

Black / Gray Holding Tank Capacity 55/55 Gal.



Your trailer has a 10,500 dry weight.



I have seen people towing some really large trailers with first gen trucks, but after owning one, I can say that our 26. 5 Terry was about all I think I wanted, and in rush hour traffic in Seattle the brakes really scared me a time or two.



I think it is time for a new truck. And at your 12K to 14,180K loaded weight a dually would be best.



SNOKING
 
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