Have a 1990 F-250,HD,4x4 pu (460 cu" engine)(53,000 original miles). I was pulling a 21' travel trailer (about4,000 lbs) up a fairly steep 5 mile grade. When I got to the top and slowed down it started loosing transmission fluid. Ended up adding 6 qts and everything seems to be working fine. Presently the transmission works fine when pulling the trailer on the level but I don't want to take the chance of it overheating again before it is fixed. I've had it to 3 different transmission shops including the Ford Service Center and they all give a different reason for overheating and the fix. I want it fixed but don't want to spend more than necessary because of the age and value of the vehicle. Any suggestions on what the problem is and what the minimum fix should be. Thanks

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 24-Sep-02 AT 05:13 PM (EST)]Try Synthetic ATF and/or aftermarket trans. oil cooler if you havent already.

 

you should also check your cooler if you have one for fluid flow. no flow or little flow with restriction will cause an overheating condition under heavy load.

Jim

 

GET A TRANNY TEMP GUAGE! This will help save the life of any tranny. When you are towing and the temp gets too high, pull over for a while. Better to sit on the side of the road and lose 20 minutes of drive time than drop $2000 when the tranny melts. I think this (along with many other things, grrrrr) should be standard on any HD vehicle with a tow package.