Cooking ATF on a regular basis

[NeilT]

My ATF has started to overheat after short trips getting worse over the last few times i've used it. First time after a long motorway haul then lots of engine braking and uphills so i thought it was just overuse. Same thing happened again after a long trip. Fluids changed and then yesterday it did it again on a steep hill but only 1/2 a mile from home, truck unladen.

I've checked for an air lock in the cooler (ran engine until it came out the cooler exit pipe and reconnected it) Level and fluid should have been OK.

Temp warning sender doesn't work, wiring and light OK, so i might need a new sender, i'll pull it out and check it.

I've never had a problem before these and i don't want to add another cooler for the sake of it. Are there any other possible factors that i should consider? Is this possibly worn clutch plates or related to the torque converter? Other than overheating there are no indicators of problems when i'm driving.

Does driving with ECT on or O/D off help keep things cool?

I'll try to drain all the fluid out, any tips on that appreciated! Would running the engine for a second pump the oil out? Or would this cause damage?

Running out of ideas!
Thanks

[Gamedawn]

I know this sounds like a kind of "cop out" answer but try the yellow pages for an Auto Transmission specialist. I had a service and fluid flush done on mine for just over £100 and I didn't get a finger dirty It might be you've got a blocked filter or something but they should find anything like that

[AndyLala]

I had mine done a couple of years ago (yes, it is due again) and the stuff that came out was like treacle. They had to 'cook' the filter to get the stuff to seep out. Difference once it was done was impressive.

Should come through between £70.00 to £100.00 for the job.

I have since had the atf temp light come on... (didn't even know it had one) since, and next job is an atf cooler to be fitted (hint, hint, Tony), now that most of the air con is sitting in an old box in the back of the garage...

[NeilT]

cooking filters? Sounds like fun. Is it DIYable though? I like the sound of a complete flush but if that £100 is mostly labour i'll have a go myself. I've got 2 buckets but not everyone seems sure that method works?

I'm fed up paying twice - the labour and then the tax on my earnings to pay for the labour, oh it's suddenly £120!

Any other suggestions or info still welcome!!

Cheers