Towing questions about my '98 XLT

[Jerrymc]

We just picked up our '98 XLT about a week ago and so far, besides some minor repairs, it's working great. The tranny has 125,000 miles on it but the fluid levels are good and the color is good too. I was going to have a tranny flush done on it soon.

The specs say the 4.0L SOHC XLT has a towing capacity of 5800 lbs. This truck had a hitch installed but it still needs brakes put on it, so I know the previous owner didn't tow anything TOO heavy. We have a camper that weighs in at about 5,000 lbs. I've lowered it onto the hitch and pulled it a few feet with no problem. The back suspension handled it without a problem. My concern is the tranny.

She's only going to pull this camper maybe 4-5 weekends a year in the summer, but we do live in an area that can be quite hilly (western Pennsylvania). Should I put an aftermarket tranny cooler on it? If so, can you recommend some brands?

 

[je5]

Largest one you can fit.

 

[pfeffer1728]

search for tranny coolers...you will find many, many hits including pictures, instructions, etc.

 

[dreamr]

Personally I am running a B&M super cooler. If I were to tow regularly I would add a second one as well as auxillary filtration.

If I remember correctly Albino94LTD also added a cooling fan to his... Could be wrong there though, just seems I remember him saying something about doing it or thinking about it. Drop him a PM as I know he pulls a heavy boat ALOT so has taken many steps to protect his tranny. He's on here most every day, but doesn't post much. Drop him a pm and he'll shoot one back at ya.

 

[tnmk]

If your going to do a tranny flush anyway, I would definately consider going with synthetic fluid. Amsoil, Mobil 1, Redline are all good brands.

It's possible you'll see better mpg, but definately better for the tranny

Make sure they change the filter.

And don't forget the transfer case fluid