Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Transmission cooler compression fittings

[wlowe]

I'm considering installing an after market transmission cooler on my truck using compression fittings to connect the cooler to the metal transmission lines. I'm not sure what the pressure is in these lines so I'm looking for some feedback from members who have used these compression fittings on transmission lines. How well do they hold, any leaks/problems. I would hate to blow one of these and toast my trans. Thanks for the help.



Bill

 

[Rebel Ram]

I have used 1/2" copper tubing to fab up temporary lines to replace kinked stockers. It still is on one of my 1st gens and happy. But with the newer truck which I am sure you would like to keep as sano as possible, I would go with stainless tubing and stainless comp fittings. I am using a coupler as a line splice on my 01 for ease of removal. It works fine. We have an industrial pipe and tubing warehouse here in northern Ca called Windustrial. If you look for a similar vendor I'm sure you'll find what you need. I forget the MFG name but just looking at the parts you can see they are very High quality.

 

[CanadianCarGuy]

I used Swagelok fittings when I relocated my heat exchanger during the twin turbo installation. I have never heard of these fittings leaking or letting go under pressure EVER! The transmission line will burst before these fittings will let go. You can use tube cutters (heavy duty ones only, not the ones for cutting plastic tubing) to cut the line and the swagelok goes right onto the end of the line.

 

[OPoole]

I replace the stock lines with -8 hose and AN fittings.

 

[Misenheimer]

When I bought my 98. 5 it had a leak where the rubber hose clipped on to the metal line at the radiator. It only leaked when in gear so I did not discover it till I got it into my driveway. I cut the line about four inches back then welded the damaged part of the line and used a sewage lock brass fi9tting from the hardware store to put it back together. 40,000 miles later no problems.