Got a trans temp gauge--trans too hot!

[webwrangler]

Based on some threads here and the advice of a friend, I started down the road of taking better care of my trans by monitoring my trans temp and having a gauge installed. I have a 2000 Tundra, 4.7, towing a 3300 lb. travel trailer from time to time. I got the truck with 98,000 miles on it; I now have 110,000 and the transmission has always smelled hot after a long drive. I had the trans serviced at about 100,000 miles.

Got the gauge and pod from Summit Racing, had the local dealer install in the trans pan. Driving back from having it installed (45 miles) the temp gradually went up to 250 degrees and stayed there! Without the trailer! Outside temp was 70 degrees or less.

I'm thinking of getting an aftermarket cooler and installing it myself. On the 2000 Tundra, is the small cooler in front of the radiator the stock trans cooler? I have some physical limitations (fused neck) that might keep me from doing more than a basic replacement at the front of the truck. I used to do a lot of my own work, but now even changing the oil is a problem.

Can anyone tell me what will work in the 2000 Tundra and if I'm looking at the right place to put the replacement? I won't be offended if you tell me to have it done by a shop.

[apimpdad]

I just installed my trans temp gauge, and it will hover anywhere from 180 to 200. And that is with the outside temp around 90!

Also, where was the temp sensor installed at? In the trans pan, trans cooler line??

[webwrangler]

I took it back to the dealer (who installed it) today--even though it was installed in the pan, it needed to be grounded. They soldered a ground wire to it, and all is well. Temp mostly stayed around 160, and for a short time up to 180 towing the 3300 lb. trailer at 60 mph up gentle hills.

Whew!

Thanks for the reply--I guess this thread is dead.