1995 4runner transfer cooler bypass?

4for4runner · Jan 7, 2012

can i bypass the cooler for the transfer on my 1995 4runner????? its leaking somewhere at the cooler and hose connection. it looks like it has a copper crush washer but if that doesnt work am i able to bypass it ?????? either by cutting both ends and using a ribbed connector so it continues to flow or can i disconnect straight from the t case and put a bolt in each hole?. im thinking the bolt to case will not work because that pump would not have anywhere to pump that fluid and create an internal problem. which way if i can do it anyway??? thanks

BucknutBob · Jan 7, 2012

4for4runner said:
can i bypass the cooler for the transfer on my 1995 4runner????? its leaking somewhere at the cooler and hose connection. it looks like it has a copper crush washer but if that doesnt work am i able to bypass it ?????? either by cutting both ends and using a ribbed connector so it continues to flow or can i disconnect straight from the t case and put a bolt in each hole?. im thinking the bolt to case will not work because that pump would not have anywhere to pump that fluid and create an internal problem. which way if i can do it anyway??? thanks

I would do whatever is necessary to get the leak fixed and KEEP the cooler--they put it on there for a good reason. Check the fittings, washers, and lines for damage--it might be as simple as putting a few wraps of teflon tape on the fittings. You don't want the T-case dying on you from overheating in the middle of nowhere.

2ndGen4runner4x4 · Jan 10, 2012

I by-passed my transfercase cooler by simply installing some transmission line hose and double clamps to both metal lines coming out of the case. So far so good... but I do plan to replace my cracked cooler when I can find one.
No one really seems to know what to call this part as it is not a transmission cooler but a transfer case cooler... yet the salvage yards all want to call it a transmission cooler.
I wanted to install an aftermarket cooler but i can't find one that small that will fit up into the frame rail like the factory one does.
Anyone know the factory part number for this item? Mine is unreadable.

2ndGen4runner4x4 · Jul 1, 2012

I finally replaced the by-pass hose with the proper factory cooler and lines. I replenished the t-case with fresh ATF and am now ready to hit the beach this summer! This is NOT a transmission cooler... it is an actual transfer case fluid cooler.

I've included a few pics...

The by-pass hose