Transaxle Cooling

The transmission fluid cooling system consists of the following:

• Oil-To-Air (OTA) transmission fluid combo cooler
• Transmission fluid cooler tube assembly
• Transmission fluid cooler outlet tube
• Transmission fluid cooler return tube

These vehicles are equipped with an external transmission fluid cooler. The transmission fluid cooler is part of the A/C condenser and cannot be serviced separately. The cooler is mounted in front of the engine radiator. This transaxle has an internal thermal bypass valve. When the transmission fluid is below normal operating temperature, transmission fluid bypasses the cooling system. When the transmission fluid is at or above normal operating temperature, the thermal bypass valve opens, allowing transmission fluid to travel from the transaxle through the cooler and back to the transaxle. The transmission fluid cooler transfers heat from the transmission fluid to the outside air.

Transaxle Cooling 

Fig 1: Identifying Transaxle Fluid Cooler And Transmission Fluid Cooler Outlet Tube

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.