I have a 2019 F-150 with a 5.0 engine and tow package, along with a 10-speed transmission. I’m towing a trailer with a GVWR of 7,200 pounds, though it’s likely around 6,500 pounds fully loaded. When pulling up long inclines, my transmission temperatures have reached as high as 245-250°F, which seems too hot to me. I’ve had to pull over a couple of times to let it cool down, though I haven’t experienced any warning lights or limp mode.
My truck only has the oil-to-water (OTW) transmission cooler located by the 10-speed transmission. From what I’ve gathered, the 2019 model didn’t come with an auxiliary transmission cooler for any engine or tow package. If I’m mistaken, please correct me. I understand that they may have installed a bigger radiator and fans instead.
Does anyone know what parts those are so I can confirm if my truck has the larger radiator and fans? What can I do to reduce the transmission heat? Is it possible to add an aftermarket auxiliary transmission cooler or install a bigger radiator? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’ve had my 6 Speed get up to 230 when towing. But that was pulling 5k up a 6% grade. When towing on flat ground it stays 200-215.
I actually had to replace the transmission about 2 years ago. While I was pulling the trailer up that same mountain pass the truck went into limp mode and stuck in 3rd gear (wrench light and ‘Service Advance Trac’). Instead of stopping and towing to a shop we continued on the trip and dealt with it at home. The shop said when they dropped the pan to fix the solenoid that failed there was bits of clutch in the pan. On the drive home I watched the temp and it stayed at 225 +/- 5 the whole 100 mile trip. They said that was hot enough to burn the clutch pack.
Are you using tow/haul mode? The shop told me the excessive heat was because the torque converter would not lock. Tow/haul mode should lock the torque converter more often and that should help keep the temp down.
Also, I read the best way to cool down the transmission is idling in Park. That turning the engine off while it’s hot will keep the hot fluid in place, but idling in Park will keep the fluid moving and cool down the transmission.