Transmission Cooler Line

[Christopher]

I have a 2005 saturn relay with a 3.5 L V6 FWD.

The transmission cooler line rusted out and started puking ATF. My question is what is the best way to go about repairing it. Should I take a brake line cutting tool, cut out the bad part and put compression fittings on it with a new bit of line, or should I replace the whole thing.

And more importantly, should I drop the pan and do a full fluid and filter flush, I know there is issues sometimes with replacing transmission fluid in older cars. That the new fluid somehow destroys the transmission.

Also do I have to worry about getting air in the system like the brakes or cooling system?

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Topic

[Richard Kirshy]

[color=orange][i]I have a 2005 saturn relay with a 3.5 L V6 FWD.

The transmission cooler line rusted out and started puking ATF. My question is what is the best way to go about repairing it. Should I take a brake line cutting tool, cut out the bad part and put compression fittings on it with a new bit of line, or should I replace the whole thing.
[/i][/color]
That would come down to your budget and availability of the parts.
OEM parts if available could be pricey.
Making replacement lines will require tubing and the proper end fittings and your knowledge of tube flaring.
The latter information and instruction can be found on youtube.
Splicing a new section of tubing is also a option.
But keep in mind that if one section of the line rusted through, the question is how long before another does.

And more importantly, should I drop the pan and do a full fluid and filter flush, I know there is issues sometimes with replacing transmission fluid in older cars. That the new fluid somehow destroys the transmission.
Doing a transmission filter change would be a good idea along with replacing the pan gasket.
As to a fluid flush ….
With out knowing the maintenance of the vehicle.
That is a gamble, some manage it with no issues, others have created more trouble.
My suggestion would be drain and fill what you lose when changing the filter.

Also do I have to worry about getting air in the system like the brakes or cooling system?
No worries on that.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Use the OEM recommended fluid for your vehicle.

[Author]

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