Towing Transmission Temp Question

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Sdp1234

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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

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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

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Are you using Tow/Haul mode?

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

upload_2020-9-24_13-16-45.png

upload_2020-9-24_13-16-59.png

upload_2020-9-24_13-17-34.png
 
Last edited:

Rocket Man

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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

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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 $$$).
 
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Sdp1234

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3C884042-1C9D-471B-83BC-8743D21D0A59.jpeg 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 below1733BCA5-D2A1-4C60-814D-D0AE33C768A9.jpeg
 
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Sdp1234

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Next I needed to address the tapping I started hearing. Manifold bolts rusted off. Added this 107255CA-DFC3-4DAC-BE3F-4648E628C1E1.jpeg

Also received my headlightlight kit yesterday.

image.jpg
 

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