Transaxle Cooling

The transmission fluid cooling system consists of the following:

• OTA  transmission fluid multi cooler
• Transmission mounted transmission fluid cooler tube assembly
• Transmission fluid thermal bypass valve
• Transmission fluid cooler inlet 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. The transmission fluid cooling system also consists of a transmission fluid thermal bypass valve which is mounted on the transaxle main control cover. When the transmission fluid is below normal operating temperature, transmission fluid travels from the transaxle to the transmission fluid thermal bypass valve then back to the transaxle. When the transmission fluid is at or above normal operating temperature, the transmission fluid thermal bypass valve opens allowing transmission fluid to travel from the transaxle through the transmission fluid cooler then back to the transaxle. The transmission fluid cooler transfers heat from the transmission fluid to the outside air.

Transaxle Cooling 

Fig 1: Identifying Transaxle Cooling System Components

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.