Why You Need To Look After Your Transmission's Protective Device
by Debra Morgan
If you run your vehicle more than average or tend to tow heavy loads behind it, you may need to think about taking some preventive measures to avoid a breakdown. In particular, you'll need to protect your transmission as it can overheat in these situations and start to malfunction. What can you do to address this challenge but crucially, how can you also ensure that your protective device works?
Protecting Your Overworked Transmission
Whenever you overstress your vehicle, parts like the engine, gearbox and transmission are adversely affected. With the transmission, the system may need to run through the gears more often to cope with varying speeds and undulations, which will invariably lead to elevated temperature levels in the casing. In a situation like this, the protective lubricant may begin to break down as it struggles to deal with these hot conditions and the best way to address this is to cool it down.
This is where a transmission cooling device is worth its weight in gold. While some vehicles have these fitted as standard, most don't, but you can usually buy them as an aftermarket option.
Holds A Cooler Work?
The cooler looks like a small radiator. It sits next to the main radiator at the front of the vehicle and is connected through a network of hoses to the transmission. A pump will force the fluid through these hoses to the cooler, sending it into a matrix of narrow fins and tubes to disperse the built-up heat. Now that the fluid has been cooled by the airflow, it will be sent back to the transmission to begin work again.
Encountering Issues With Your Transmission Cooler
A transmission cooler is a much simpler and less costly device than the transmission itself. Therefore, it makes sense to rely on this part to protect the major component but remember, issues can also arise here. For example, the cooler matrix becomes damaged as it is exposed to the elements. In this case, it may develop a leak, and you may notice liquid beneath your car in this vicinity.
Sometimes, tiny particles of contaminant may accumulate inside the heater matrix, causing a blockage. This will prevent the cooler from doing its job, and the fluid will overheat, triggering a burning smell. In the worst-case scenario, you may begin to hear some strange noises from within your transmission casing, which may be caused by inadequate lubrication.
Taking Action
If you suspect issues with your transmission cooler, act as soon as possible. This will help you avoid any knock-on and more serious problems elsewhere. If in need of further assistance, turn to car repair service near you.
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About Me
I've been running an auto service shop for the past 30 years. The trends in cars have changed a lot over that time, and cars are becoming a lot more complicated and automated. People can't fix many items on their own cars any more as you need a computer to diagnose most issues. People use their cars a lot more these days as we live further away from workplaces and schools so it's important for me to be able to get cars back quickly. I have had to keep learning about how the new cars run and I keep a lot of hints on this site so you can all learn the things you can do to make your cars run better.