95 SL Auto Transmission Shifting Delay

[89HatchbackLxi]

So the best solution would probably be to run it standalone, correct? Since a buildup/restriction in my stock trans oil cooler is what may be causing the issue? Running it in series may run it cooler, but the buildup/restriction issue likely won't change since it'll still be part of the trans fluid cooling system? I'm thinking if I do decide to tackle this I may try to install it behind one of the dual vents on the sides of the front bumper, if it fits.

Edit: then again, if it's temp related, perhaps running it in series WOULD help more...

[stealthee]

Actually running in series would make it run a little warmer than running it standalone since the radiator warms the fluid slightly.

[89HatchbackLxi]

Ok. It probably has a reason for warming it though, right? Like in case of extreme cold weather?

What should I use to check the temp of the fluid before I start on anything?

[stealthee]

Its technically not supposed to warm it per say, but in extreme cold conditions it does help with that.

As for checking temps you'd probably have to install some sort of aftermarket trans temp gauge. There is a trans temp monitor OEM on my Grand Prix, thats the only reason I know the temps there.

[IPD]

too cold trans fluid. sounds like an N/A problem.

[stealthee]

too cold trans fluid. sounds like an N/A problem.

Eh, supercharged GP's can still have issues with too cold fluid. Realistically you want to be around 175*. If you live in a hotter climate it probably won't be an issue, if you live in the northeast, winter driving can have issues with the colder fluid.

[89HatchbackLxi]

I kinda figured I'd have to install a gauge. I was kinda just hoping I could use a laser temp sensor or something, but that probably wouldn't be too accurate/accessible for trans fluid.

I live in the High Desert area of Socal, so "extreme cold" here is about 10'F, maybe 0'F at the lowest, and that'd probably only be an overnight temp. Heat, on the other hand....

[89HatchbackLxi]

So, I caved and had my transmission rebuilt about 3 weeks ago. Transmission shop found a problem with 2nd gear sticking, and overdrive sometimes not engaging/disengaging. Said they found it was worse when the car was still cold. Had my front rotors replaced at the same time, as they were causing the car to shake a bit when braking. Cost me a few grand, but my car is now running as it should be again. The shop let me see my parts afterwards, and a couple of the gears were definitely looking pretty worn. Previous owner had the transmission actually replaced back in 2000 according to the pile of service papers that came with the car.

I guess 15 years isn't too bad before needing a rebuild. Everyone tells me the automatic transmissions on these cars aren't that great, so I suppose a rebuild was to be expected by now. Hopefully the engine is more durable though.

[IPD]

Those people have no fucking clue what they're talking about. These transmissions are great. Dodge wouldn't have used them in everything from minivans to the stealth--if they weren't good. You don't see DSM guys bitching about them. I think it's just 3/s owners who don't know any better (because they think it's somehow inferior because the VR4/TT's never came with them stock). Couple that with people who don't know anything about the 3/s--who diss on the platform all around because of the baseless urban myths they hear & repeat. And last but not least, idiot owners who should have bought a fucking manual in the first place--but instead got an ATX & then try to shift it like an MTX, do neutral drops, etc.