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'04 transmission overheating

I just got a 1 year old Explorer with V8 and towing package and 10k miles. I used it to tow a single axle enclosed utility trailer over the weekend. When I was on my way home pulling an empty trailer but bucking a wind, I noticed white smoke. I immediately slowed down and the smoke stopped and since I was only a few miles from home and had OP, I drove it home. I determined that I was blowing transmission fluid out the vent hole as my tranny is covered with oil. . My fluid is red and doesn't smell funny and the level seems ok and it shifts like normal. Did I hurt the tranny? Its under full warrenty and I explained to the dealer that I would be using it to tow occassionally and they assured me it would be fine. Should I have them check everything out?

Reply to
Orlun
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If you think, in any way, it is normal for the vehicle to smoke and leak fluid while towing an empty trailer, then no - don't bother taking it to the dealer for the free warranty work.

*sigh*
Reply to
Mark

I already made the appointment for tomorrow. I guess what I meant was it hard driving or a defective transmission. I have a mechanic buddy who told me that bucking a wind with an enclosed trailer at speed is about the hardest you can work a vehicle. I'm wondering if I have a problem or if I could have this happen again in a similar situation.

Reply to
Orlun

I have a 99 V8. I pulled a heavily loaded 5 x 12 U Haul from San Diego to Denver. There is a 3, 500 foot climb coming out of San Diego (El Cajon pass) , then down into Phoenix. Climb up to Flagstaff at 6,000 feet, then across to Albuquerque over a 10,000 foot pass. Albuquerque is in a valley - climb up across northern New Mexico over a 10,000 foot pass down into Trinidad Colo and along the front range of Colo into Denver.

I don't like making long trips at 50mph, I held 60 most of the way - including uphills. Trailer was over 4,500 lbs loaded (1,800 lbs empty).

I don't think you've really driven your Explorer hard yet. Probably just a coincidence you had a problem with a trailer attached.

Reply to
ross via CarKB.com

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