ATF filter & cooler upgrades

[kegunder]

I want to upgrade the ATF system by adding a filter and cooler on my 2000 Avalon XLS. I'll be doing this because I want to be able to tow a small trailer. Also, I've been reading on bobistheoilguy.com about how transmissions are the weak link in modern cars. So I'm hoping to take steps to see if I can increase the life of my car. (I know towing is the worst thing I can do to the transmission short of never changing the ATF fluid. I will only need to tow small loads of supplies from the lumber yard, plus occaisional camping trips.)

I'm looking at the magnefine filter (on-line or from napa.) Please let me know if you have experience with this filter. What size is needed?

About the cooler: what kind to cooler is recommened based on the space available in the Avalon? Do add-on coolers usually replace the stock cooler or just get put on in addition to the stock?


Please post your experiences. I couldn't find much in the archives.

[csaxon]

TOYOTA TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER INSTALLATION
To prevent overheating of the engine and transmission when towing a weight of more than 1,000
pounds, the radiator should be replaced with a higher cooling efficiency unit and a transmission oil cooler should be installed. The radiator transmission oil cooler and required hardware for installation are available through normal parts supply.
Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 pounds (with transmission cooler installed).
Affected Vehicles: All Avalons with A541E automatic transmissions.

I couldn't find a part number for the add on cooler but you might try the Toyota dealer.

[toyomoho]

A Google search at sites like the one below will turn up lots of information.

http://www.perma-cool.com/Catalog/Contents.html

Suggest a plate-fin design for increased efficiency and smaller size. The extra cooler is usually run in series with and after the in-radiator cooler. The Avalon cooler is mounted in front of the radiator/evaporator. Suggest even with a cooler to monitor your trans fluid condition and use of overdrive.

Here is a TN post on the subject:

---->V6 Auto trans cooler writeup (for you non tow package guys)

[Niteboi]

Hey if your looking for a air filter you should get a K&N Filter. Its a performance filter that got me better gas mileage, and better accerleration for my car but for what your talking about it should open up your engines breathing room from its orginial filter.

[csaxon]

Welcome Niteboi. He's asking about an auxillary automatic transmission cooler and filter.