Transmission Fluid Cooler Flow Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mercury Sable and 2003 Ford Taurus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The transaxle linkage/cable adjustment, fluid level and line pressure must be within specification before carrying out this test. For additional information, refer to TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION EXTERNAL CONTROLS for adjustments.

Remove fluid level indicator from fluid filler tube.
Place funnel in fluid filler tube.
Raise the vehicle on a hoist and place suitable safety stands under the vehicle.
Remove the cooler return line (lower fitting) from the fitting on the transmission case.
Connect one end of a hose to the cooler return line and route other end of the hose up to a point where it can be inserted into the funnel at the fluid filler tube.
Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle. Insert end of hose into the funnel.
Start the engine and run it at idle with the transmission in NEUTRAL position.
When fluid flowing from hose is in a steady stream, a liberal amount of fluid should be observed. "Liberal" is described as about 1L (1 qt) delivered in 30 seconds. If a liberal flow is observed, the test is complete.
If the flow is not liberal, stop the engine. Disconnect the hose from the cooler return line and connect it to the converter outline fitting (upper fitting) on the transmission case.
Repeat Steps 7 and 8. If flow is now approximately 1 liter (1 quart) in 30 seconds, refer to TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLER - BACKFLUSHING AND CLEANING . If the flow is still not approximately 1 liter (1 quart) in 30 seconds, repair the pump and/or the torque converter.

If new fluid cooler tubes need to be installed refer to TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION COOLING .