Installing Perma-Cool remote trans filter...

[35Remmy]

So I'm installing a Perma-Cool remote transmission filter tomorrow...is there anything you guys can recommend for an easy install? It looks like a pretty straight-forward job but we all know how "easy" easy can be!!! For instance, (I didn't look at it yet), I don't know which line is the supply (pressure) and which line is the return.

My 5R55E was just rebuilt and I want to treat her the best that I can!!!

 

[96eb96]

So I'm installing a Perma-Cool remote transmission filter tomorrow...is there anything you guys can recommend for an easy install? It looks like a pretty straight-forward job but we all know how "easy" easy can be!!! For instance, (I didn't look at it yet), I don't know which line is the supply (pressure) and which line is the return.

My 5R55E was just rebuilt and I want to treat her the best that I can!!!

I know my 96 returns to the trans from the bottom of the radiator. There is a sticky here where someone installed a cooler. We are discussing how to fasten the rubber lines. I suggest not cutting the lines and installing threaded barbed NPT fittings on the line and in the radiator fitting..

 

[BrooklynBay]

The return line on the transmission is on the top. # 52 in my list of useful threads has links with charts.

 

[35Remmy]

Heh, so which one is the return?!

I got the kit today and quickly realized that the radiator fitting is way too small, and I don't want to cut my metal lines.

Sooo...I've opted to have the filter work with the cooler, so all I have to do is deal with rubber lines. I had to go to Lowes to buy the 3/8" barbed fittings to connect the hoses, though.

Initially, I disconnected the tranny lines from the radiator, disabled the coil and let her crank...for like 5 seconds...about 3 times...and nothing came out!!! Weird.

From the 20-something page post on this topic, I think I understand that the IN, or PRESSURE line INTO the cooler is the line on the left as you are looking at the cooler or the lines from the front? I'm thinking I'll disconnect these lines as well to test the in and out.

 

[mechanix]

The nice part about the Perma Cool filter kit is it uses the Ford FL-1A or equal unlike a lot of those no name filter kits who use some no name off size filter that you have to order from them that costs 25 bones. I have installed one of these in my F-150, I haven't changed it but I feel confident that it will help keep my trans shifting like a champ for years to come. If you like I could snap a few pictures of how I installed it.

Also to determine which line is the input look for the line coming out of the trans cooler. This will be the input. The trans fluid runs through the radiator first then the trans cooler second.

 

[35Remmy]

Mechanix...I know, how much easier does it get than the good 'ol FL1A?! Thanks for the good idea on determining the input...so basically the INPUT line on the cooler will be the line that runs from the radiator to the cooler, right?

Then, the OUTPUT line on the cooler feeds back to the transmission?

Man, I feel like I'm in the military again studying the oiling, hydraulic, cooling, etc, etc, etc routes for mechanical qualification!!! NO, I don't miss it a bit!!!

 

[35Remmy]

Oh, I forgot...most of you are mounting these filters in the fender well...looks like you are attaching the filter mount directly to the plastic housing that surrounds the trans cooler/bottom of the radiator?

I was wondering if that is a strong enough spot, or if I should take some plate steel (or anything) and reinforce the back of the plastic that I'm screwing in to.

 

[mechanix]

I drilled two holes in the frame just inside the frame rail on the pass side to mount the filter. There is a nice hole in the bumper that adds a cooling effect. I think it cools the fluid by at least 57 degrees by allowing the air to move across the filter due to the hole.

Eric

 

[aldive]

I think it cools the fluid by at least 57 degrees by allowing the air to move across the filter due to the hole.

How did you determine this ? Or is it just an opinion?

 

[96eb96]

The return line on the transmission is on the top. # 52 in my list of useful threads has links with charts.

Hmm..top of transmission or radiator? I recall connecting a tube to the top inlet tube of the radiator when flushing......

The bottom of the rad then returns..

 

[BrooklynBay]

The return line on the transmission is the upper line as previously mentioned in the quote above. The lower line on the transmission is the pressure line.

 

[35Remmy]

That's interesting...you would think the fluid would be pumped to the top and then return at the bottom, letting gravity do it's job...like model A gas tanks, heh.

 

[mechanix]

How did you determine this ? Or is it just an opinion?

Aldive this was a sarcastic remark. I have no clue how hot the trans temp is. All I know it the filter is warm to the touch after driving and the new filter adds another quart to the system. I would like to be able to cut the filter open now that I have about 5k on the trans after I rebuilt the trans and see what kind of goodies are inside the filter.

Eric

 

[96eb96]

The return line on the transmission is the upper line as previously mentioned in the quote above. The lower line on the transmission is the pressure line.

ok, thanks, i should think in terms of the trans...I have 3 different ford trans(other vehicles) and your links are very helpful.