Can the factory Transmission Cooler be Bypassed on a 1996 Ford Taurus with 3.8 Liter Engine
Question:
I have a 92 taurus 3.8L. My radiator has an internal leak and is pumping transmission fluid into the coolant side. If I just plug off the transmission fluid/radiator connections completely and install a Derale unit will it support the whole transmission fluid cooling load? That is, can I use it in place of the radiator and not just as a supplemental unit? I dont plan on hauling anything. Just passenger use.
asked by: Chip B
Expert Reply:
If you are sure that the problem is a leak in the radiator and not indicative of a larger, potentially worse problem, it is possible to use a transmission cooler to bypass the factory cooler, though it is not the recommended method.
What you would need is the largest cooler that will fit in your engine compartment. You will want it as close to the airflow as possible. The out line from the transmission that is currently going to the factory cooler will instead need to go to the new cooler. The same goes for the return line. Then of course you would plug up the holes where the hoses used to be.
Ideally, you should use the Derale Hyper-Cool Extreme Remote Cooler Assembly, # D15870, that comes with its own fan, so it does not matter where it is placed. I have included a link to all of the remote coolers for you to view. I have also included a link to our FAQ article on transmission coolers.
Products Referenced in This Question
Derale Hyper-Cool Extreme Remote Cooler Assembly w/ Fan, -8 AN Inlets - Class V
- Transmission Coolers
- Remote Cooler
- Heavy-Duty Truck
- Remote Mount
- 13W x 14-7/8T x 5-5/8D Inch
- With - 8 AN Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Mid-Size Truck
- SUV
- Van
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 8-3/4T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Frequently Asked Questions About Transmission Coolers
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Transmission Cooler
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compatibility with 5000 lb Travel Trailer
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Q&A: What do the Class Ratings Mean on the Transmission Cooler Pages
- Article: Engine Oil Coolers
- Q&A: Transmission Cooler Recommendation for 2011 Chevy Silverado
- Q&A: SuperCoils and SumoSprings For Improving Ride Quality On a 2019 Ram 1500 With Truck Bed Camper
- Q&A: Towing Package for a 2008 Honda Odyssey
- Q&A: Comparing Flex-A-Lite And Derale Transmission Coolers For A 2016 Honda Pilot