Run ATF thru New Cooler and New Radiator?

[ljwd]

'98 V6 4wd Limited. 188,000 miles. Just purchased a few months ago, but seems to have been very well maintained. Very little rust anywhere and all of the fluids looked good. However, I'm now using to pull a pop-up camper (about 2,200 lbs).
After reading the many threads on here, I'm convinced to get an ATF cooler. I've seen some threads that even used an additional fan for their cooler. However, new radiators appear to be cheap.
Would it not be good insurance to put in an external cooler AND a new radiator, routing ATF through both....and not messing with an extra fan?

 

[LittleCaesar]

You are good to go with your logic. The only additional issue I would address is possibly draining and refilling the ATF if it doesn't look red.

 

[ljwd]

You are good to go with your logic. The only additional issue I would address is possibly draining and refilling the ATF if it doesn't look red.

Okay, thanks. Yes, the ATF looks good, but I'm an overkill type of guy when it comes to fluids/maintenance, so I'll definitely do a drain and fill.
I love this vehicle. First 4R I've had and want it to keep going. I would replace our newer cars with another 3 gen 4R if it wasn't for the gas mileage!

 

[binhsterbinh]

I have 130k on my '00 SR5 V6 right now. A few weeks ago, I installed the B&M 70268 ATF cooler and simply bypassed my existing cooler built into the radiator. You can go either route, but I think the 70268 is more than adequate at cooling your transmission by itself while being bypassed. Although, my 4Runner is a California car and has no rust once so ever. If you're worried about your current radiator failing altogether, than I guess it'd be wise to replace it.

If you mount the external ATF right up against the existing radiator/condenser setup in front, I think the factory fan should be able to pull some breeze through just fine. Another member did a smoke test by burning some paper while the cooling fan was on and it pulled right through the external cooler.

On other note, regarding the mileage - I agree that it's pretty poor and owning two of these things would be expensive if you do long distance commuting like me.