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Originally Posted by RockyMtnRay
Yeah...you should be fine without the external cooler as long as you make sure the transmission torque converter stays locked. The transmission doesn't generate much heat as long as that TC is locked...but as soon as it unlocks and you start getting torque conversion/slippage, a lot of heat gets generated. The best way to insure TC lock is to simply turn off the OD...that allows TC lock in 3rd gear and given your fairly small/light trailer in combination with the relatively low altitudes and mild grades of your trip, 3rd should provide more than enough towing power.
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Again, thanks for the informative post. I'm heading out soon w/out a tranny cooler but will probably order one when I return. This whole espisode has really soured me on my Tundra which I have thoroughly enjoyed up to this point. I guess what I have is not a true work vehicle but a "TOY" ota. You would think that a Tundra V8 could pull a small to moderate size trailer without having to add extra options/packages. I could understand having to add options to pull travel trailers, 5th wheelers, or high GVWR dual axle trailers. I thought I would be fine with a 1200 lb. enclosed trailer and 600 - 700 lbs. of cargo in a "just go" mode and your advice has partially indicated that is the case. However, I dread going 1000 miles with the OD off as the mileage is not that great as it is. The most weight I have ever had in the bed is whatever 10 2x4s weigh and only three times has another person been in the vehicle and the primary reason I bought it was to be able to pull my bike to distant rallies. My prior truck was a suck a-- Ranger with a 3L V6. I never even checked to see if it had a transmission cooler as it was leased. It pulled the trailer fine in OD but would dramatically slow down on moderate grades. I assumed the Tundra would be the ticket. I thought I had really done my homework but the exact vehicle I wanted was hard to locate (or get another dealer to transfer) so I wound up with a new unit with everything I wanted except it came with a distributor tow package instead of the factory unit. The dealer said I would have no problems (of course, what else would he say?) but with the suggestions from TS members of flushing the transmission, adding the tranny cooler, and/or always driving with the OD off, I realize I probably should have picked another brand of truck--oh, well, live and learn. In other words, what I have is a great looking and riding car in a truck's body. Again, thanks for the excellent advice!