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Old 11-11-2014, 09:36 PM   #1
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Transmission Cooler Leak

I have developed a pin-hole leak in the bottom cooler. The leaking fluid looks like transmission fluid. I have TransSynd synthetic fluid in the transmission. Coach is a 2001 34 ft FDDS. Cummins ISC with Allison 3000 6 speed transmission.
My questions:
1. Am I correct that this narrow cooler at the bottom of the radiator is a transmission cooler?
2. Is this a common failure?
3. Is it better to rebuild this cooler or find a replacement, and where?
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Old 11-12-2014, 05:42 AM   #2
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Yes--its the transmission cooler; common--not very; believe Radiator Specialists of Sacramento, Ca made the various components for the "radiator stack." Suspect any large radiator company could build a new one for you--problem is, once they start leaking, there is no way to tell for sure where/when the next leak will occur [probably caused by outside rust but could also be a failed seam/weld].
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Old 11-12-2014, 06:15 PM   #3
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No—this is not the transmission cooler. The transmission cooler is built into the radiator. You can see the fittings going into and out of the radiator all the way forward facing the transmission.

This long narrow cooler on the bottom of the stack is the Hydraulic oil cooler. Cools the oil used for power steering, power brakes and radiator fan.

I would call Mac’s radiator in Portland and see if they can fix or replace this cooler. I know they can build new Alpine radiators. Mac’s Radiator - Brad Debray 503-777-4706
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Old 11-12-2014, 06:36 PM   #4
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OOPS--I stand corrected, Gary has it right! The "red" fluid got me off course--I was thinking tranny fluid vs the ATF in the hydraulic tank on older coaches--like mine [03].....Anyway, think the other stuff I said about repair vs replace was kind of right....my bad [smile]....
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Old 11-13-2014, 04:58 PM   #5
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Thanks Gary and Old Scout:
It does makes sense. My trany fluid is synthetic and is straw colored. The hydraulic fluid is red. I will get my old rags on and have a good look at the back side. I have been monitoring the level in the hydraulic tank at every stop, and have yet to notice any drop in level. The leak is not bad enough to drip, but it wets the fins and then they cake up with dust.
Has anyone had experience with Commercial Radiator Service on Mc Dowell Rd in Phoenix, AZ?
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