Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) High Temps

[madmanmanick]

I am in the Navy and have gotten staioned in San Diego coming from Northern IL this year. Unfortunately it is HOT here from time to time. The reason this concerns me is that I was sitting in traffic and noticed that my transmission was at about 210-230 degrees F. Also my engine was about 200-210. And that is with a Mag-Hytec Double Deep Transmission Pan. Now if I didn't have a transmission temp gauge I am sure I would never have noticed it and would be going on with life as normal, but I do have the gauge and this concerns me. Once I got back up to speed and was able to get better air flow it cooled down. Now that I have bored you all, what is the maximum safe temp for the transmission, and how long can it be operated at that temp. Just in case something like this happens again?

 

[gerry]

re trans-temp

The temp I've always heard was 220* max and even that should be kept as short as possible. Anything over will lead to trans failing quickly. If you were not towing something heavy I'm a little surprised it heated that much. I have the same pan and have never had mine go over 180* even towing so I would suspect your trans cooler may be partly plugged, you could be low on fluid or someone may have other ideas. Heat is the big trans killer so it's good you have a guage and watch it. The light Dodge uses to show a hot trans I don't think activates till 260* which means it just tells you when it's toast. They should have done better but that is also why they detuned the engine for the auto instead of building as tough as it should have been IMO.

 

[ALepley]

I would check your fan clutch. Also check the condition of the cleanliness of your intercooler and radiator.