Re: [A/S] Automatic vs manual transmission

["kerfootkw <wkerfoot@xxxxxxxxxxxx>" <wkerfoot@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Colin,

Thank you for the detailed response.  My 1973 Dodge W200 Power Wagon
(8000 GVW, 3/4 ton, 4wd, camper package) has a separate factory
installed transmission cooler after the in-radiator cooler.  I have
130,000 miles, most of which was with a 1800 lb cabover camper, and no
transmission problems.  I also have the 4.1 axle ratios and the
Chrysler 727 automatic.  You have to look at what the manufacturer
installed, I believe that some manufacturers are better at installing
equipment which meets the use of the vehicle.  (Not to pick on GM, but
I had a neighbor with a 1976 or 1977 3/4 ton Chevrolet with camper
package who bought a cab over camper and the back bumper went down
three inches and had to install overload springs, my Dodge lowered one
inch with a similar camper.)

You are 100% correct that proper maintenance, including fluid changes,
will prolong vehicle use.  I know that transmission shops have fluid
exchange equipment because on some vehicles you cannot drain the fluid
in the torque converter.  My 727 has a drain plug in the converter.

Bill Kerfoot
1979 23' Safari
1973 Dodge W200 Power Wagon
WBCCI 5223
Orange, CA