Towing Transmission Temp Question

[Sdp1234]

2004 Denali
6.0
3.73 gears
4L60-E/4L654 speed heavy duty A/trans (M32)
173K miles
Pulling about 5k total weight including wood in the truck

I was towing a camper this week. We went approx 90 miles. Highway driving @65-70 mph. Not crazy elevation but a lot of up and down hills.

Trans temp seemed to be a bit higher than normal. I typically see 180 but it seemed to stay between 210 and 220
Is his a concern?

What is the best process to check fluid levels in these trucks?

 

[bigdog9191999]

seems a little high to me, to check the fluid, pull the dipstick, it may be time for a fluid and filter change too. taking a look at the fluid can tell you a lot.

if your going to pull regularly it would probably be a good idea for an aftermarket trans cooler.

 

[Fless]

Are you using Tow/Haul mode?

Fluid level is covered in your owner's manual, available online from GM, like this from an '04:

 

[Rocket Man]

Use tow/haul and if you’re going to tow much at all get a Tru-Cool 40k and that will help a lot.

 

[Sdp1234]

Are you using Tow/Haul mode?

Fluid level is covered in your owner's manual, available online from GM, like this from an '04:

View attachment 258511

View attachment 258512

View attachment 258514

Thanks for the instructions I’ll check the levels tomorrow and have it changed when I return from vacation.

 

[Sdp1234]

Use tow/haul and if you’re going to tow much at all get a Tru-Cool 40k and that will help a lot.

Rocketman
I’m using tow haul mode and I’ll get on that aftermarket cooler in a couple weeks

Thanks

 

[Rocket Man]

Rocketman
I’m using tow haul mode and I’ll get on that aftermarket cooler in a couple weeks

Thanks

There’s lots of write ups on installing the Tru Cool 40k in our trucks.

 

[S33k3r]

There are also videos on installing the Tru Cool, along with various forums (and their members) who sell add on kits to make it even easier to install (but bring $$$).

 

[Sdp1234]

Update... I needed to tow again the next week and I was uncomfortable waiting for a cooler. I installed the only one I could get. Not anything as good as the Tru-Cool but it kept me below 180 rather than around 220. If I have to go back and replace with the Tru-Cool it will be easPictures below

 

[Sdp1234]

Next I needed to address the tapping I started hearing. Manifold bolts rusted off. Added this

Also received my headlightlight kit yesterday.