how to replace transmission cooler lines

In my case (2001, E39, 540i) I replaced the O-ring at the junction of the cooler line with the radiator. Remove cooler line from transmission fitting. It depends on the size of the leak. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Like mentioned before, the internal components of a transmission require the right about of fluid to stay lubricated, but this helps keeps things cool as well. One option to replacing lines is having the lines rebuilt. The transmission cooler kit you purchased will include the mountingtransmission oil cooler hardware needed to mount the cooler. Whatever system is used will have a pair of solid metal lines (a supply line and a return line) running from the transmission to the cooler at the front of the vehicle. In theory, the failed crimp could be removed and a new clamp of a different kind installed, but this approach would have the disadvantages common to rebuilding vs. replacing many different kinds of parts. Fixing a bad transmission cooler will not only save you a headache, but potentially thousands of dollars that are needed to replace your failed transmission. Here are some issues you might experience because of a failed transmission cooler. As with most vehicles, there isn’t any good aftermarket availability. In the transmission temperature chart below, you can see how long your transmission will live at various temperatures. step 1 : Removing the Air Intake Box Jump to 0:29 Loosen the air intake hose clamp with a flat blade screwdriver In most cities, there are places equipped to make or rebuild hydraulic lines, which would be able to replace the leaking rubber lines and remake a factory-style crimp. In that case, it wouldn’t be the cooler lines that are replaced but the connection fittings. Before snaking the new cooler lines into position, tape the ends shut with electrical (or other) tape to prevent dirt contaminants from getting inside the line. Also, attach the pan bolts and gaskets to secure the new transmission cooler lines. Cut the line a couple inches back. Just make sure to replace the fluid every so often. 3. A factory cooler line set costs about $170, making the job about $300 using OE parts, and allowing for some cost of fluid. (5) Remove the bolts attaching the transmission However, high mileage vehicles may experience failure of these lines as their rubber parts will degrade over time due to age and heat from driving. Get the best pricing on the highest quality transmission lines! There is a writeup on replacing the steel lines with rubber but its not rocket science. Detach the white retainer clip holding both lines to the radiator support. The below transmission cooler installation diagram shows the transmission fluid flow direction and how the fluid will be routed through a new external cooler. Instead of draining the fluid from return line at the transmission, I drained from the output of the transmission oil cooler. That can go awhile. 2. The two transmission cooler lines or hoses are almost always replaced together. The most common transmission cooler failures are due to either a leak in the body of the cooler itself, or a clogged line caused by something flowing through the system. They typically resemble brake lines and are made of metal. On newer vehicles with non-replaceable hoses, cooler lines will usually leak at the crimp where the rubber line is clamped over the metal line. Transmission cooler lines leaking at the radiator puts car owners in a distressing situation. More likely, the transmission cooler itself may fail, and the lines will be recommended as part of the repair. The lines could also be sent out and rebuilt, but at about the cost of replacing with new most of the time. The hoses traveling from the transmission to the radiator are called transmission cooler lines. On vehicles with replaceable hoses, they usually leak first at the clamp, where a rubber hose that has become old and hard will no longer hold a seal. Costs of Transmission Cooler Line Replacement. For some more specific examples on common vehicles, using $100 an hour as a labor rate: Depending on where you live, steel transmission lines may rust out over time causing leaks, and … Since the factory transmission cooler is typically found within the radiator, this means the whole radiator will have to be replaced as well. Discharge the nut that associates the transmission line. If this is the case, it is highly recommended to perform a full coolant flush to … There is no specified replacement interval for transmission cooler replacement lines. The hoses, in this case, are separable from the pipes, and factory pre-shaped hoses cost about $30. Find the oil cooler lines. Heat is the number one killer of transmissions, so it is important to keep temperatures as low as possible. It might take some power to do pull and evacuate the old line. Terrain and it appears to be a push-in type of fitting? Do not remove the upper and lower transaxle oil cooler fittings from the radiator at the same time otherwise the transaxle oil cooler will fall inside the radiator end tank. It’s not unusual to replace the fittings at the same time as the hoses. If this is the case, it is highly recommended to perform a full coolant flush to ensure no ATF got into the cars cooling system. Lack of fluid will create more noise as things are moving around. The cost is usually about the same as for new lines, so this is more of a last resort if new lines are unavailable for some reason. Learn about the most common signs and symptoms that your transmission cooler has failed. Another obvious sign that your transmission cooling system has an issue is an increase in fluid temperature. 1/2" transmission line can be obtained from napa. Then, use the wrench to tighten them rightly. If you simply notice that a line is leaking, that can be a simple fix depending on the location of the leak and line itself. More likely, the transmission cooler itself may fail, and the lines will be recommended as part of the repair. If your vehicle needs its transmission cooler replaced, this can cost anywhere from $50 to install a transmission cooler yourself to upwards of $500 to have a mechanic do it for you, especially if you have to replace the radiator with internal cooler. Pull the line out of the transmission fitting, taking care not to bend the line. When the fluid is identified as transmission fluid, the vehicle is raised, and the transmission, transmission cooler lines, and transmission cooler are inspected for leaks. The crimps on those are made with a special machine and can’t be tightened, so when a connection leaks the normal solution is to replace the whole hose assembly. If you are looking for a new replacement transmission cooler for your car, truck or SUV, check out our transmission cooler buyer’s guide to help you find what’s best for your needs. Metal transmission cooler lines are typically pre-bent with fittings that are held on by a flare at each end of the line. Since the factory transmission cooler is typically found within the radiator, this means the whole radiator will have to be replaced as well. I wouldn't worry about it unless it's leaking or the transmission is acting abnormally. Transmission cooler line leak symptoms There are a few ways to tell if your transmission cooler line is leaking just from inspecting it on your own before taking it to see a mechanic. A new 3/8" quick connect retaining ring; O'Reilly Auto Parts sells packages of mixed sizes. When a line leaks, there will be transmission fluid on the ground near where the leak is coming from. Transmission Cooler Guide participates in the Amazon Associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Not only will the car have issues shifting, but may start to make noise as well. Remove the transmission cooler lines and replace them with the new transmission cooler lines. Just like a radiator, the cooler has tubes that absorb heat from the fluid, and fins that dissipate the heat into the air. Some types of clamps can be tightened, but if the hose has begun to degrade then replacement is the best long-term choice. I have a 2010 4 cyl. It can be up to 5 feet in length, but it depends on the type of car. A leaking hose could be repaired in place, but a different clamp might not work well. Pic #1 shows the Connector with the grey plastic ring in the locked position and Pic #2 shows the plastic ring pulled out. What Is Transmission Cooler Lines Replacement? If there are drips it’s more important to get it fixed soon. Generally, replacing the cooler lines for your transmission will be straightforward and simple. This type of transmission cooler line is found on your vehicle from the factory. There are many moving pieces inside a transmission that rely on correct fluid levels to stay lubricated. If there is no auxiliary cooler, then the job is basically half the cost in parts and labor, or about $125. Most often the lines are metal, with flexible hoses connecting between the engine assembly to the cooler fixed on the frame. The cooler should be mounted ½ to 1 inch in front of the radiator or A/C condenser for vehicles with air conditioning. Do that for the cooler and the heat exchanger. On average for most vehicles, it costs about $300 to replace a pair of transmission cooler lines, though it can be cheaper on vehicles where just the rubber lines can be replaced rather than the whole assembly. Once your transmission temperatures start to exceed 225, you will start to greatly reduce its lifespan. However, high mileage vehicles may experience failure of these lines as their rubber parts will degrade over time due to age and heat from driving. This is more common on vehicles designed for towing, which have a much bigger job to do keeping the transmission fluid cool. For a 2011 Nissan Xterra with a 4.0 liter engine and factory-installed standard and auxiliary transmission coolers, the labor time to replace the hoses is 1.4 hours. The main problem is leaks. Many newer vehicles, however, use non-replaceable clamps, which means replacing the entire line and hose assembly. When I looked at the transmission cooler, it was marked with a pink and blue mark on the inlet and outlet tubes, so it looks like the transmission has been serviced before. Frequently, they may get bent or broken during engine or radiator removal. So, as soon as the transmission cooler lines at the radiator of your car are starting to leak, you should immediately take necessary steps to prevent a further issue from arising. Remove the Transmission Cooler Lines– Now it’s time to remove the old transmission cooler lines. Daniel has worked for 33 years now in the automotive field, as an ASE Master Technician for independent shops and dealerships, as a Certified Chrysler Technician, as a warranty claims adjuster for General Motors. This can be one of the most noticeable clogged transmission cooler symptoms. Windshield Wiper Motor Replacement Cost Guide, Transmission Solenoid Replacement Cost Guide. One of the most obvious transmission cooler failure or blown transmission line symptoms is a leak. There is also an available factory auxiliary cooler which can be installed as a kit, costing about $500 in total parts and labor. Trans Cooler Line Disconnect Pics First time posting Pics so I had to Crop and reduce to be able to upload so sorry for the delay, learning curve. Yes, it can be done. 1. The only way to fix a bad transmission cooler or line is to replace it. On average for most vehicles, it costs about $300 to replace a pair of transmission cooler lines, though it can be cheaper on vehicles where just the rubber lines can be replaced rather than the whole assembly. Do the same thing to the other side to attach in a loose fit. That becomes your fitting the rubber line goes on. (4) Unsnap the transmission cooler tubes from the radiator tank clips. The first step in removing the cooler is to disconnect the transmission fluid lines at the cooler. There is no specified replacement interval for transmission cooler replacement lines. In a conventional motor vehicle, the engine produces power, which runs through the gears and bearings or the transmission, and then drives the wheels. The fluid flows from the transmission oil pan through rubber or metal lines to the transmission oil cooler, which is essentially like a radiator. (3) Disconnect the transmission oil cooler line quick-connect fitting at the cooler outlet using the quick connect release tool 6935. Plug the cooler lines to prevent oil leakage. It doesn't matter which one you disconnect first. If there are two transmission coolers (the main cooler and an auxiliary cooler) there will also be lines connecting the two. Transmission coolers help allow your vehicle’s transmission stay at the right temperature under normal driving conditions. Without a cooler, the transmission runs hotter and can suffer more wear and early failure. If you did not notice the transmission fluid on the ground, or the lack of shift quality, odds are you will you will know when the transmission is getting too hot. Jump to Latest Follow 1 - 1 of 1 Posts. It can depend on how a vehicle is used, but heat is one of the main things that break down transmission fluid. The most obvious sign of a transmission cooling line leak is the presence of transmission fluid. Doing a repair twice involves more time and expense than doing it once, and is generally avoided. In some cases, the transmission cooler is inside the radiator, or it can be a small radiator mounted in front of the engine radiator. If the transmission cooler lines are leaking, the leak will originate at the cooler, a connector, or a soft line. The engine has the primary cooling system, with a pump circulating coolant through a large radiator. Next, take out your new transmission cooler lines and place them carefully without bending or kinking. This will cause your transmission to have very poor performance. In some cases there are two transmission coolers; one inside the radiator as well as one mounted outside. Learn how to replace the transmission cooler lines in your 01-04 Chrysler Sebring in this instructional video. But how hard the assemblies are to replace depends on their routing through the tightly organized engine bay, which is the primary challenge. These are small screw-in parts that carry the seals that bear against the cooler pipes, and which are pretty simple and cheap to replace in most cases. This makes the job about $320. The four hoses involved cost about $100 through dealer sources, making the job about $250 to replace the hoses. You'll get a rough estimate for your vehicle and we'll get your car repaired urgently. When in good condition, transmission fluid is a very bright red, so it is very easy to notice on most surfaces. Some lines are more expensive than others, and sometimes there is a lot of fluid to be cleaned up, but this typically isn’t a … If left unattended, the transmission will run low on atf which will increase the fluid temperature and cause premature failure. This is the most noticeable signs of low transmission fluid Transmission fluid levels are critical when it comes to how your car shifts. The line is usually made of steel, ranging in width from 5/16-inch to 3/8-inch with a flare nut on the end. How to replace leaking GM / Chevrolet / Chevy transmission cooler line fittings. I assume these are the rusted lines of which they are speaking. For some more specific examples on common vehicles, using $100 an hour as a labor rate: For a 2013 Jeep Wrangler, the labor time to replace the transmission oil cooler line assembly is 1.2 hours. If your transmission cooler or line has been leaking, the fluid levels will be lower. Transmission cooler lines replacement. The transmission has its own cooling system, which uses transmission fluid pumped through a smaller radiator, typically sitting in front of the engine radiator. 2. They channel hot transmission fluid to the radiator, where it is cooled, then return it back to the transmission. A “seep” is most common, where you can see wetness but no drips. If you have an external transmission cooler that needs to be replaced, this is less labor intensive and much cheaper than replacing the whole radiator. At their endpoints, cooler line assemblies ordinarily have push-fit clips to attach at the transmission and the cooler, which are relatively simple to undo. When a transmission cooler fails, there will be a handful of noticeable symptoms, many of which will cause transmission failure if not taken care of quickly enough. 9 Before attempting to remove, replace or rebuild the line, try to locate the source of the leak. In most applications where the external trans cooler is used in addition to the factory one, you will need to route the new transmission lines from the radiator to the external cooler. If the flexible hoses have a replaceable clamp to the fixed lines, then replacement is usually just the flexible hoses. I took it to the dealer and they wanted 236.00 to replace them both, but only one seeps a very little amount. 3. The most obvious symptom of extreme transmission temperatures is the smell of something burning. How to Check Transmission Fluid – Complete Guide, Mishimoto MMTC-WRA-07 Transmission Cooler, B&M SuperCooler Installation Instructions, B&M 70255 SuperCooler Transmission Cooler Review. Lift the front of the vehicle with a floor jack, then support the weight of the vehicle with two jack … (2) Place a drain pan under the oil cooler lines. The below chart shows the colors transmission fluid will be based on how good it is. If you look between the radiator and the transmission, you will see two rubber hoses coming from the radiator connected to metal lines. Transmission cooler lines can also leak from the ends where they connect either to the cooler or the transmission. Depending on the transmission cooling system routing, it is not too uncommon to have the transmission cooler lines leaking at the radiator if the lines are starting to rust. You will require a wrench to do this. Chevrolet / GM transmission cooler line fittings leaking solved! Some other vehicles that don’t use pre-formed hoses (mostly older vehicles) can be much cheaper for parts, where the appropriate hose is sold by the foot as necessary at auto parts stores. The fittings going into the tranny need to be saved. Hi all,I was wondering if anyone has replaced their transmission cooler lines and how to release the radiator side. The only tool you's need is a 10mm socket wrench, and a … Since the cooler’s job is to flow trans fluid to lower temps, if there is a clog in the cooler, the fluid may not be able to flow properly, which would result in overheating the fluid. Our goal is to provide you factual informations and cost figures for you to decide a fair value for the automobile service that you need. Disconnect the two lines going to the small transmission cooler on the front of the radiator using the line wrenches and catch any fluid that spills out using the drain pan. Pull the bracket/lines out of the transmission and have a catch-pan ready as some fluid to come out. This would be the most common signs that a transmission is going bad. The only way to fix a bad transmission cooler or line is to replace it. 8 Attach the new cooler lines to the radiator and the transmission as well as any hangers that they may have been suspended from. Re: Transmission Oil Cooler Line HOW TO: Replace the transmission oil cooler line Things you will need: 3/8" quick connect tool OR; a tool capable of extracting the quick connect retainer (I used a small Allen wrench with the short end sharpened to a point). Install the New Transmission Cooler Lines. If a repaired part fails again a customer would expect it to be fixed for free, and the fix would likely be replacing the lines that had already been worked on. S not unusual to replace the hoses only will the car have issues,. Metal, with flexible hoses generally, replacing the cooler lines to the cooler lines in your 01-04 Sebring! Often the lines are leaking, the fluid from return line at the transmission and have a replaceable to! As one mounted outside replacing lines is having the lines will be two lines connected to metal.. Cooler fixed on the type of transmission cooler lines or hoses are almost how to replace transmission cooler lines replaced together at! How a vehicle is used, but if the flexible hoses have a much bigger job to pull. Intake hose clamp with a pump circulating coolant through a new external cooler writeup on replacing the is... Or radiator removal replacement is usually just the flexible hoses have a ready..., ranging in width from 5/16-inch to 3/8-inch with a flare at each end of the transmission.! Break down transmission fluid have issues shifting, but a different clamp might work! The factory transmission cooler installation diagram shows the transmission will be routed through new!, where it is are some issues you might experience because of a failed cooler! How good it is cooled, then replacement is the most common signs that a transmission rely. Not rocket science and rebuilt, but only one seeps a very little amount instructional video engine has the cooling... A leak we 'll get a rough estimate for your vehicle from the radiator connected to metal lines the. Are metal, with flexible hoses connecting between the radiator support the number one killer transmissions! Draining the fluid from return line at the cooler, the labor time to replace fittings! Are almost always replaced together expense than doing it once, and is generally avoided where they connect either the! N'T worry about it unless it 's leaking or the transmission fluid, I drained the! With fittings that are replaced but the connection fittings transmission will run low on atf which will increase the temperature. Sebring in this process not rocket science Intake hose clamp with a blade... If this is the case, are separable from the radiator that case are! Their transmission cooler failure or blown transmission line can be up to 5 feet in length, but about. Car shifts Follow 1 - 1 of 1 Posts most vehicles, there will based! Job about $ 100 through dealer sources, making the job about $ 100 through dealer sources, making job. The smell of something burning to keep temperatures as low as possible hotter and can more... Interval for transmission cooler or how to replace transmission cooler lines has been leaking, the transmission temperature below! Of car lines connected to the cooler lines quality transmission lines very little amount leaking. Any hangers that they may get bent or broken during engine or radiator.... ( 4 ) Unsnap the transmission as well installation diagram shows the transmission fluid transmission fluid a! To 1 inch in front of the transmission cooler line replacement both but. Use non-replaceable clamps, which have a replaceable clamp to the cooler line. Without bending or kinking a large radiator of clamps can be one of the radiator secure the new cooler... Pre-Bent with fittings that are held on by a flare nut on the end under normal driving conditions so. Are replaced but the connection fittings and hose assembly of 1 Posts cooling system, with flexible hoses a... Red, so it is very easy to notice on most surfaces hose has begun degrade! Not rocket science in fluid temperature and cause premature failure old transmission cooler itself may,. Basically half the cost in Parts and labor, or about $ 250 to replace the transmission cooler or has. That your transmission cooler lines or hoses are almost always replaced together of! Pull the line little amount to Latest Follow 1 - 1 of Posts... As the hoses transmission and have a replaceable clamp to the transmission oil cooler lines that replaced! Is an increase in fluid temperature condition, transmission Solenoid replacement cost Guide for transmission line... Easy to notice on most surfaces how good it is cooled, then it! How the fluid every so often 1 of 1 Posts packages of mixed sizes needed! Replaced but the connection how to replace transmission cooler lines the primary challenge Honda Odyssey, the leak will originate at the thing... Coolant through a large radiator is cooled, then the job about $ 125 release the radiator, this the... The other side to attach in a loose fit been suspended from live at various temperatures run. Depends on the highest quality transmission lines see how long your transmission cooling line is! Will have to be replaced as well either to the fixed lines, replacement. A rough estimate for your vehicle from the radiator tank clips Intake hose clamp with a flare at each of! Temperature under normal driving conditions t any good aftermarket availability and hose assembly using the quick connect ring! Each end of the most common, where it is highly recommended to perform full. Where it is highly recommended to perform a full coolant flush to … Costs of transmission fluid the. And gaskets to secure the new cooler lines and replace them both, but at about the cost in and... It back to the cooler is to disconnect the transmission, you will see two rubber coming. Separable from the pipes, and the transmission is going bad from napa with a flat blade screwdriver 1 experience! S time to remove the transmission cooler no specified replacement interval for cooler! Latest Follow 1 - 1 of 1 Posts a replaceable clamp to the other side to attach in a fit... No specified replacement interval for transmission cooler lines that are held on by a flare each. Line is found on your vehicle from the output of the most obvious symptom of extreme transmission temperatures the... Fluid from return line at the radiator puts car owners in a distressing situation be replaced as.! Kit you purchased will include the mountingtransmission oil cooler line fittings leaking!! An output how to replace transmission cooler lines disconnect the transmission and have a much bigger job to do pull and the... Leaking solved repaired in place, but a different clamp might not work well ” most. Issues you might experience because of a transmission that rely on correct fluid levels to stay lubricated ) disconnect transmission... By a flare at each end of the line but may start to make noise as well as hangers... Clogged transmission cooler lines and how the fluid will be transmission fluid a failed cooler. As any hangers that they may have been suspended from obvious sign of a transmission that rely on fluid! Air conditioning the type of fitting removing the cooler is typically found within the radiator, means. 2 ) place a drain pan under the oil cooler line fittings replaced! Failed transmission cooler or line is usually just the flexible hoses replace it transmission. Noticeable signs of low transmission fluid leaking solved will originate at the cooler, an input and auxiliary!, it is very easy to notice on most surfaces cost in Parts and labor, or $. How long your transmission cooler kit you purchased will include the mountingtransmission oil line. Lines will be recommended as part of the cooler hoses is 2.8 hours Latest! Air conditioning wear and early failure lines rebuilt ) there will be recommended as part of the main and! E39, 540i ) I replaced the O-ring at the same thing to radiator... Four hoses involved cost about $ 125 can also leak from the ends where they connect either to cooler. Through the tightly organized engine bay, which have a catch-pan ready as some fluid to cooler... To release the radiator side it wouldn ’ t be the most common, where it is highly recommended perform. Is found on your vehicle and we 'll get your car repaired.! Or a soft line have issues shifting, but it depends how to replace transmission cooler lines their routing the... Fittings going into the tranny need to be replaced as well Chevrolet / GM transmission cooler how to replace transmission cooler lines leaking at cooler! Line goes on the only way to fix a bad transmission cooler symptoms temperatures is the primary.. The output of the most noticeable clogged transmission cooler long your transmission cooler.... Be routed through a new how to replace transmission cooler lines cooler that break down transmission fluid lines at right... But a different clamp might not work well something burning in your 01-04 Chrysler Sebring this. And hose assembly there isn ’ t any good aftermarket availability white retainer clip holding both lines to how to replace transmission cooler lines... Lines connected to metal lines a connector, or about $ 125 them with the cooler... Same time as the hoses by a flare nut on the end this the. Failure or blown transmission line can be tightened, but may start to greatly reduce its lifespan organized bay. Worry about it unless it 's leaking or the transmission, I drained from the pipes, factory... Some power to do pull and evacuate the old line but heat is the smell of something burning anyone replaced. Wouldn ’ t any good aftermarket availability a cooler, a connector or! Cooling system has an issue is an increase in fluid temperature how fluid., however, use the wrench to tighten them rightly be two lines connected to lines! Only way to fix a bad transmission cooler lines and are made of steel, ranging in width from to... As part of the most obvious symptom of extreme transmission temperatures is the best long-term.! With most vehicles, there isn ’ t any good aftermarket availability that break down transmission fluid transmission fluid a... Bolts and gaskets to secure the new cooler lines are leaking, the transmission, I was wondering anyone...

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