Automatic transmission cooling system
The automatic transmission cooling system is designed to maintain the optimal operating temperature of the automatic transmission. It consists of the following components:
1. Heat exchanger
The heat exchanger transfers heat from the transmission fluid to the engine coolant. It is usually located next to the engine radiator and has a coil design. Transmission fluid flows through the heat exchanger and coolant flows around it, cooling the transmission fluid.
2. Automatic transmission radiator
The automatic transmission radiator is a separate heat exchanger designed to cool the transmission fluid. It is similar to an engine radiator, but is usually smaller in size. The automatic transmission radiator is located in the front of the car and cools the transmission fluid with air flow.
3. Transmission oil pump
The transmission oil pump circulates transmission fluid through the cooling system. It creates the pressure necessary to move fluid through the heat exchanger and radiator.
4. Thermostat
The thermostat regulates the flow of transmission fluid through the heat exchanger. It opens when the transmission fluid reaches a certain temperature, allowing it to flow through the heat exchanger.
5. Piping and hoses
Pipes and hoses connect the components of the automatic transmission cooling system and allow fluid to flow between them.
Operation
The automatic transmission cooling system works as follows:
* The transmission oil pump circulates transmission fluid through the system.
*When the transmission fluid heats up, it enters the heat exchanger.
* In the heat exchanger, the transmission fluid transfers heat to the engine coolant.
* If the transmission fluid is not cooled sufficiently by the heat exchanger, the thermostat opens, allowing it to flow through the automatic transmission radiator.
* The automatic transmission radiator cools the transmission fluid with air flow.
* Cooled transmission fluid is returned to the transmission.
The automatic transmission cooling system helps maintain the optimal operating temperature of the automatic transmission, which prevents overheating and extends the life of the transmission.