lightner27

Do you know if the 03' has a transmission cooler if it came with the towing package? I have a 4200lbs camper and it did a great job towing it back from VA to PA this past weekend. But I'm worried that I'm pushing the limits as I only got 9.7MPG on the tank. I'm worried that I'm going to kill the transmission if I don't have a factory cooler installed.

Should I look at getting a transmission temperature gauge installed?

Help before I kill my transmission I would think I'm safe but I would rather be safe than sorry. Its a 2003 with only 26,000 miles on it. I also have a 2001 LS430 Ultra with only 63k miles. I love them and would never want to hurt them.

Ali SC3

iTrader: (10)

Welcome to CL.

look in front of the radiator on the right side (left side has the electric fan). I would just check to make sure instead of going off options.
A gauges is probably not a bad idea if you do a fair amount of towing.

check out post 11 in this thread has a picture
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...ml#post7126384

sprocket

Your mileage is about right for towing that load. I get right at 10 towing a 4k boat.

I'm 99% sure my 2004 has the transmission cooler. I'll take a peak this morning.

lightner27

I'm glad to hear that my gas millage is about normal for the weight I'm pulling. I was afraid I was maybe pushing it a little too hard. I also noticed when turning the GX on I see a light on the dash during its test sequence that says A/T Oil Temp. I'm guessing I couldn't get a temperature gauge as I'm sure the transmission temperature sensor is occupied by the same hole that you would use for a transmission temperature gauge. If I remove this sensor the light will always be on I would assume which would not be a good idea for oil temp increases that would need alerted if in the event of an overheating issue.

Regardless I feel better about towing now. Hopefully I can let of the gas a little and gain a few more files per gallon.

Thanks all!

lightner27

I'm told you can get a slitter that allows the factory sensor and a transmission cooler gauge to work at the same time. I'll see if I can find a device like that so I can install a temp gauge this spring for longer trips. Again thanks for the advice.

-Dan

Ali SC3

iTrader: (10)

probably just splice into the factory wire if its a compatible gauge would be the easiest way.

IF you are looking for a litle more cooling you could always strap a small fan to the trans cooler, there is plenty of space. put it on a relay with a switch o 12V switched power and flip it on for when you are towing. you run it to switched power so if it will turn on and off with the car if you leave it in the on position.

LexRex

I can't recall for sure if the trans temp is available via the OBD-II on these trucks - but if so, a Bluetooth OBD reader or Ultragauge would beat the heck out of splicing into the wiring to add a gauge.