Tranny Cooler leaks

[Flyingjackal456]

Well I've already corrected the problem, but I figure I'd give everyone a heads up.

This applies to the 1998 Windstar (probably other years too) with the 3.8l V6 engine (I'd assume the 3.0l engine is the same).

On the backside of the radiator, there are quick connect fittings for the transmission cooler, these fitting seal with nylon and a rubber o-ring. Because they are nylon, they can really only be used once, maybe twice if you're lucky. A few months ago I had the radiator replaced, and the radiator came with new fittings. Little did I know, the fittings on the radiator, while they look the same, they have a high risk of leaking. (3 out of 4 fittings failed within 200 miles) The top fitting was leaking, I ended up complaining, and I got a second radiator. This radiator started leaking out of the top fitting also, and I decided to go to the dealer and buy the real fitting. The top was now dry and clean, no leaks. After a few short trips, the transmission fluid was 2 qts. low, and the bottom was really leaking bad. I ended up going back to the dealer, and getting another fitting for the bottom.

Now the radiator has no leaks, and the transmission still has all of its fluid topped off.

Now the radiator was either a CarQuest or Napa part, and they both usually have good stuff, I guess the fittings are cheap though. After doing some googling, I found that not only fords have this issue, but also Dodges. And is has to do with Napa making these parts in China and the specs are not up to snuff.

Also, Napa does sell a disconnect tool for those fittings (similar to the fuel line disconnect tool), but I never needed to use it, never even bought it, as I didn't care about saving the leaky fitting, just yanked it out.

So just a word to the wise, if your fittings start leaking, or if you plan on swapping a radiator, go to the dealer and grab the fittings before you even begin the endless headaches of new parts failing.