Transmission Fluid in Radiator?

2000 DODGE RAM

80,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

BNHGREATDANES

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When pulling out of the driveway this morning I noticed red fluid on the ground. When opening the hood, transmission fluid was gushing out of the radiator overflow. I would like to know what could or would cause this to happen. Will I need to replace the entire cooling system? Could it just be a hose problem? I have temporarily parked the truck to sit, as I have a secondary vehicle to drive, but would like to know what I am in store for in the repair process. On a side/background note I have already replaced the transmission in this truck within the last year.

Jan 10, 2009 at 3:20 PM

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KASEKENNY

CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
18,907 POSTS

If this was just transmission fluid and not mixed with coolant then this is a transmission cooler issue.

This would mean that you need to replace the radiator as it is part of this and not replaced separate if the cooler is what is leaking.

However we should inspect the lines going to the cooler while the engine is running and see if you can pinpoint the leak.

Below is the information on this and let us know if you have other questions. Thanks

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Apr 21, 2021 at 9:12 AM