97 Explorer, tranny cooler last longer?

[Glen4X4]

Ok, so me and the fiance are going to be looking at a 97 XLT Automatic 4X4 the better version of the XLT with leather seats and all that, We're considering getting it if it turns out to be alright but they had replaced some things including the transmission with one that has 40k miles on it, and if I'm not high on the automatics but its a nice truck, if I were to get this and put a tranny cooler on it, would the transmission last alot longer than what most do because its to my understanding that the automatic tranmissions get hot and wears parts out quicker? I've only ever owned manual vehicles so just wanted some info on this because I dont want to have to be replacing the transmission in 50k miles or somethin like I said I don't really know much about automatic transmissions I just know that most go junk alot quicker than a manual. Thanks in advance for the info!

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's possible that there is already a cooler in there. Take a look at # 8 in my list of useful threads for more information.

 

[Glen4X4]

ok, but the cooler will help it last longer, correct?

 

[Glen4X4]

first 2 links wouldnt work the 3rd was to small for me to read lol

 

[BrooklynBay]

Cooler ATF in an automatic is always a good thing (unless you live at the north pole). There is still a minimum working temperature which it has to work at.

 

[BrooklynBay]

First link:
Dead Link Removed
4th chart:

5th chart:

 

[Glen4X4]

Ok, thats helpful I dont really plan on doin much towing with it since I have my sport but never know when it could suddenly break down or something cuz stuff happens, but I heard they go out with normal daily driving use so would be my best bet if it dont have one to just get one anyway. thanks for the chart.

 

[BrooklynBay]

The plate & fin design is more efficient than the tube & fin design.

 

[Glen4X4]

Ok, like I said I really don't know much about automatic tranny's just know some problems they sometimes encounter. Thanks!

 

[aldive]

The plate & fin design is more efficient than the tube & fin design.

They are called stacked plate coolers.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Here's a picture of a stacked plate cooler:

 

[Glen4X4]

ok cool, this something I should be able to do myself? I do most of my own work on my sport but don't wanna risk screwin it up if its gunna be complicating.

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's not complicated.

 

[Glen4X4]

ok, good deal, I'm excited to check it out, and since I've only ever owned first gens and my dads never had a problem, is there anything to look out for that poses problems in these years explorers?

 

[aldive]

Take a look at the following thread: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=127283&highlight=transmission+cooler+relocation