2007 Ford Explorer Transmission Coolant Radiator Connection Line Problems with PICS!

[Regulatur02]

Hey Guys, I'm new to the site and I have had a serious issue that I cant seem to find much advice or help from, so I have come here. Here's the issue...

I have a 2007 Ford explorer, that recently had the radiator changed, I cut some corners to save money and had a buddy do it on the side. Everything was fine for a month or two but recently I noticed, that transmission fluid has been leaking from where the transmission pipes connect to the Radiator.

See example below:

You can see the metal piece that goes inside is damaged and not sealing correctly. Now here lies the problem, I took it to a ford explorer technician, and he was thinking he could get the part, and looked everywhere and cannot. He informed me at this point, it may that I have to buy a new radiator.

Any of you guys have any thoughts on this? I know the radiator I had recently changed was more of an OEM then stock 2007 radiator.

Here is another pic:

I recently saw this for sale online, but it appears to be different. I'm not sure what I can do at this point, or if this piece would work? Or am I looking at a new radiator? Thanks for the help guys!!!!

 

[mrmobo]

I recently had this assembly apart because the after market radiator I purchased had incompatible fittings.
I would just go ahead and replace that fitting. Be gentle and try not to disturb the alignment as the fitting screws into an internal radiator that is held in place by that fitting and can flop around. If it gets away you will have to remove the radiator and jiggle it back into place.
Removing that fitting can be tricky. I was not able to find the right removal tool at the local auto parts store. The problem is that ridge around the pipe. This one should work.
http://www.denlorstools.com/home/dt...1_disconnect_tool_transmission_cooler_li.html

 

[berny13]

Try using the Dorman catalog. Catalog has many quick connecters and retaining clips. There are multiple pages (click next category at the bottom).

Replaced my gas filter clips on my Mustang and saved a ton of money.

http://www.dormanproducts.com/catalog/OESolutions2006/327-342QuickDisconnect.pdf

 

[justnutsandbolts]

Saw this on google and wanted to chime in for other looking for the same thing.

There is an O-ring inside that fitting that overtime from jumping around gets crushed and oil seeps around it.

I hate FORD for doing stupid stuff like this and not use AN fittings...

 

[Blackexplorer06]

Just another of the many problems this generation of Explorers have. Mine has had two radiators and 3 trips to the dealer. It still dripped after a few months. I have the tow package which means another trans fluid cooler in front of the radiator. I by passed the cooler in the radiator. I bought some high quality hose and clamps. That was 50,000 miles ago. No leaks on the driveway.

 

[YTF0rd]

mine has a brand new radiator and already has a small drip so dont feel bad.

 

[Butch-Explorer]

Mine started leaking very bad, but a Ford mechanic told me to push it back in and then pull it out until it snaps, did it and no leaks at all now. Been 2 weeks so far

 

[Tech By Trade]

Welcome to the club. I still had my old rad because I replaced mine myself. the retaining clip on the aftermarket spectra rad was junk, so I ended up swapping the clips and o-rings out of my old rad. Still sealed after 2 years without issue. Could have swapped the fittings but I a figured i would try that first and its still going strong.

 

[roswell sun]

When all else fails do what I did and bypass the radiator all together. Picked up a B&M trans cooler