2003 Dodge Caravan Is there a connection

2003 DODGE CARAVAN
Avatar
ROB_FRESH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Transmission problem
2003 Dodge Caravan 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic
----------------------------------------------------------------
Is there a connection between the radiator and the transmission? I recently had the radiator replaced and 30 minutes later the transmission went out. I was wondering if the transmission was affected when the radiator was replaced.
Apr 14, 2008 at 2:48 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 9,123 POSTS
There is an internal cooler in the radiator for the transmission. The cooling lines attach to the radiator.

What does the fluid look like in the transmission?
Apr 14, 2008 at 3:10 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
ROB_FRESH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
[quote:1f175243b5="Service Writer"]There is an internal cooler in the radiator for the transmission. The cooling lines attach to the radiator.

What does the fluid look like in the transmission?[/quote:1f175243b5]


It was totally burnt. The smell was horrible and it was dark brown.
Apr 14, 2008 at 3:40 PM
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 9,123 POSTS
I like to get the caravans a fluid and filter change no longer than 30,000 miles, IF it were mine I would be doing it every 20,000.

I wouldn't try to hard to make a connection to the rad if the fluid was in that shape, sounds like it wasn't too far behind if the radiator had any accelerated affect.
Apr 14, 2008 at 4:51 PM
Avatar
ROB_FRESH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
[quote:2b3106ffe2="Service Writer"]I like to get the caravans a fluid and filter change no longer than 30,000 miles, IF it were mine I would be doing it every 20,000.

I wouldn't try to hard to make a connection to the rad if the fluid was in that shape, sounds like it wasn't too far behind if the radiator had any accelerated affect.[/quote:2b3106ffe2]

In your opinion(granted this is just for my personal info) would it be negligent on a repair shop to send a vehicle out without checking the transmission fluid after a radiator replacement?
Apr 14, 2008 at 6:00 PM
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 9,123 POSTS
I have to recant my statement. On this particular one the cooler is separate from the radiator.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_1co_1.jpg


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_1co1_1.jpg

I think this is more of a case of odd timing, a poorly designed transmission and a lack of maintaining the tranny.
Apr 14, 2008 at 6:18 PM