One of the next things I'd like to add to the ZJ is a trans temp gauge. I've looked at a few options on mounting the sender unit but I'd like to get hive input.
I could put it in the hot line coming off the trans to the radiator. This would tell me the hottest temp the fluid is reaching, but I'm not sure that's the most accurate indicator of trans danger. It is probably the easiest place to mount.
Second option is in the pan. This should give me a temp on fluid coming back from the cooler. That's more what I'm used to reading, if it starts to get hot it's time to take action. I CNN either buy a pan with a bottom drain and put the sender there or weld in a bung on the side if the pan which seems more prudent in an off road vehicle.
I figure real trans temp is between the two readings, and ideally youd want both. But I'm not towing super heavy, it's more about peace of mind.
Where would you guys put it?
This discussion has come up a bunch on the Nissan Xterra forums I frequent, and the consensus seems to be to put the temp sensor in the return line from the trans cooler, so you know what temp the fluid is coming back into the trans, and will know if you’re overwhelming your trans cooling system.
Strizzo said:
This discussion has come up a bunch on the Nissan Xterra forums I frequent, and the consensus seems to be to put the temp sensor in the return line from the trans cooler, so you know what temp the fluid is coming back into the trans, and will know if you’re overwhelming your trans cooling system.
That's logical. I've thought about it, curious to see what replies follow.
Thats kind of what I'm thinking too. If you are cooling it enough then it probably isn't getting too hot in the first place. I figure the pan is pretty much going to read the same as the return line, but I suppose the return line might be easier to tap....
