How to Determine Which is the Transmission Cooler Return Line in 2003 Ford Explorer

Question:

Just wanted ya add that 95 of my towing will be on the flats, with The Chesapeake Bay Bridge being my only hill.Also, which line coming out of the factory radiator cooler is the discharge line? My goal is to keep the trans fluid between170-190 degrees. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Gil

Expert Reply:

The method for determining which line is the return line is to:
1. Start engine while engine is cold
2. Put your transmission into Drive for no more than 10-15 seconds
3. Stop engine, remove keys
4. Identify oil return line by feeling both lines, the cooler of the two is the return line

Sometimes the transmission itself will have markings to indicate the function of each connected line.

expert reply by: Adam R