RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (2002)
Fluid - A/T: Testing and Inspection
Causes of Burnt Fluid
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has two primary causes.
1. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of a faulty or improperly installed
drainback valve, a damaged main cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines caused by debris or kinked lines.
2. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar high load operation will overheat
the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling
system, and the engine/axle ratio combination needed to handle heavy loads.
