Pampering your transmission

[Abyss]

So, we all know that SVX trannies tend to be, ah, slightly problematic. This thread isn't about such a transmission though. I did a little bit of searching on this topic, but it was hard to find what I was looking for, and so, new thread...

What can you do to/with a transmission that currently has no problems, to maximize the life of the transmission? I've heard things such as installing a transmission fluid cooler, and driving in third gear instead of drive. Where might such a cooler be found? At what speed should you shift from 3rd to D?

What other helpful tips do the wise members of this forum have for those of us who wish to maximize the lifespan of our lovely 4EAT?

[svxfiles]

If it has a campaign filter remove it!

Drain the fluid at both the pan and the radiator and replace it with it with synthetic. (I like BG Products.)

If you REALLY want it to last install a ECUTune valve body and a ECUTune TCU.
The valve body allows ALOT more oil flow.

If you do this you will not need to keep the car in third, you can just drive it.
Line an automatic.

Since you live in Alaska you most likely do not need an extra cooler.

Before you can know if you need an extra cooler you have to find out what your automatic transmission temperature is under normal driving conditions.
If it is less than 190°f you should be fine.

Also you want it to be higher than 150°f for the lock up torque converter to engage.

PS; I know that the ECUTune valve body lowers the transmission temperatures signifigantly!

[theflystyle]

Here is the link to the valve body info:

http://www.ecutune.com/4eat_valve_body.htm