Posted this by mistake on the modified JK tech so re-posting on stock tech in hopes someone can chime in.


Leak of AT fluid from front right area of the AC condenser/AT fluid cooler combo unit. NOT at the what seems typical area on the drivers side where the metal crimp on rubber hose is. Replacement of stock part will require refrigerant removal as well as I'm assuming new seals. Was looking at bypass option with MIshimoto cooler but after reading the description it is not a bypass, but an in line addition. I'm concerned if I just bypass it during my cold western NY winters I will have an issue with AT fluid getting to appropriate temperature. Wondering if the OE part has some type of internal thermostat to allow fluid to get to temp? Is the only good option replacement? Is complete bypass an option?

Thanks

Sorry its a repost but thought it'd get more traffic here on the stock section.

 

Maybe my brain ain’t working right this morning. I didn’t think the early models even had a tranny cooler (you show owning an ’08). You have a single unit that is both AC condenser and a tranny cooler?

 

Correct. I think all JK's have an integrated AC condense/AT fluid cooler. The bottom part is the AT fluid cooler and they are obviously separated internally. It's a clear pinkish fluid AT fluid leak from the unit itself. Gonna take things apart this weekend to get a better look.

My question remains though I'm pretty sure the best bet is going to be replacing the unit. I think if you bypass it you would need an external thermostat to prevent too much cooling in harsh winters.

Still open to opinions.

 

Auto trans coolers were not standard on the early models. They were added later. Yours wouldn't be an "all in one" so to speak.

 

All JK’s share that condenser/at cooler combo. The AT fluid hoses connect directly into it. It’s a single unit.

 

[img]blob:https://www.jk-forum.com/6f671321-da53-4691-8abb-70a740018161[/img]

 

This isn't so. My '13 has a separate condenser and transmission cooler.

 

It may matter is you have a manual transmission and certainly with the changeover in engines. All parts replacement for my 08 show an single integrated unit.

 

I have an auto myself. My point just being you’re making a blanket statement that is not correct. Regardless, if you have a leak then the unit has to be replaced. If it is a combination unit that is a dumb ass design cuz as you note, you’re going to be forced to break open the AC system which is a real hassle. You have to do what you have to do though. Those leaks don’t tend to fix themselves or get better with time.

 

From 2007 thru 2011, the automatic JKs with AC have a combination AC condenser/transmission oil cooler. The oil cooler is small, and not in the direct airflow through the grill.
From 2012 on, the automatic JKs with AC have an oil cooler mounted in front of the condenser. It is larger and is exposed to the airflow through the grill.