Life with an automatic transmission is like dating a high-maintenance supermodel: awesome to be around when everything works out and the mood is good. She can make you feel like a million bucks as heads turn to watch her pass, but when you show her even the slightest sign of neglect, she becomes a stubborn mule, unwilling to do even the simplest of tasks. That’s because automatic transmissions are complex and require constant preventive maintenance to keep them happy. As such, we’ve assembled a buyer’s guide to assist you with preserving the relationship you’ve come to depend on between you and your automatic transmission. Enjoy.
Pan-Tastic
What is it: Low-profile pan for Jeep automatics
Why it’s cool: The cast-aluminum pan for the 42RLE transmission has a low profile to assist Jeepers with clearance issues associated with skid plates, exhaust routing, and aftermarket crossmembers. The finned design helps expel heat while a magnetic drain plug allows for easier ATF changes. The unit holds an additional quart of fluid over stock and is available with a black or raw finish.
Information: PLM, 800/335-4345
yourcovers.com Purple Blood
What is it: Max ATF
Why it’s cool: ATF is the lifeblood of your transmission. In off-road driving scenarios, it can get extremely hot and oxidize, which greatly diminishes performance. Max ATF is a fully synthetic formula that is able to withstand high heat without oxidizing. This dramatically reduces wear and tear on transmission parts.
Information: Royal Purple, 281/354-8600
royalpurple.com Keep You Cool
What is it: Compact ATF cooler
Why it’s cool: This durable unit can be mounted under the vehicle along a framerail or crossmember to add additional cooling capacity. Comes with mounting hardware and your choice of -AN or hose barb fittings.
Information: Perma-Cool, 909/391-3000
perma-cool.com Fan Club
What is it: ATF cooler with a 300 cfm electric fan built right in.
Why it’s cool: Designed to provide ample cooling in locations with limited airflow, the unit measures 71⁄2 by 12 by 31⁄8 inches and weighs less than 3 pounds.
Information: Flex-a-lite, 866/447-5967
flex-a-lite.com Billet Dipstick
What is it: Locking flexible transmission dipstick
Why it’s cool: This trick-looking dipstick includes a locking mechanism and a Teflon-lined stainless braided exterior that houses a flexible inner dipstick cable. It allows you to install a dipstick in crowded engine compartments where it might otherwise be a challenge to fit a factory part.
Information: Lokar Performance Products, 877/469-7440
lokar.com Valvebody Love
What is it: TransGo shift kit
Why it’s cool: Available for many popular Jeep automatics, this kit corrects many of the common issues related to high horsepower and shortens the time it takes for the shift to occur. The kit includes ring and seal upgrades as well as case, accumulator, and other valvebody parts. This modification does not require removal of transmission for installation.
Information: TransGo, 626/443-7451
transgoonline.com Spill-Proof Drain Plug
What is it: A drain plug with a catch
Why it’s cool: This innovative all-brass drain plug allows quick connection of a drain hose to make ATF changes less messy. With over 500 sizes and thread patterns offered, these little add-ons are perfect for any Jeep vehicle.
Information: Femco, 866/466-7745
nospillsystems.com