Author Topic: Braided lines for transmission cooler?  (Read 470 times)

Chewey

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Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« on: February 12, 2023, 10:53:47 AM »
I'm making some mods under the hood to make things easier to access and was wondering if anyone has used flexible/braided lines for their transmission cooler lines? I'm eyeballing this kit from Jegs but was curious if there was an real world experience with it and things I need to look for/consider?

https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/113601K/10002/-1
-mike

78 Trans Am 400 Auto (Dec 06 HPP)
76 Trans Am LE 455/4sp w/ t-tops (1 of 110)
2020 Rally Green Camaro 2SS
02 Trans Am CETA Convertible M6 #1949 (sold)

5th T/A

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #1 on: February 12, 2023, 02:10:51 PM »
I have never used these, but a couple of things to consider. On my car, a 1980 TA the upper cooling line has to make a quick 90-degree bend to avoid hitting the coolant recovery tank. You may have to purchase a 90-degree AN fitting and it may still be tight. The factory steel lines are pretty rigid, so they don't flop around at all. You will probably need some kind of clamps to keep the lines in place. The factory steel lines had a clamp to the oil pan bolts. Last but not least, unless you already own them you could end investing a fair amount of money on tools to cut and make these lines. If your original lines are in bad shape, you can purchase ready bent steel lines with fitting, for probably less the $50.00.

Upper line shown, have to make a 90-degree bend to clear the coolant recovery tank.

IMG_1365 by Lawrence Alexander, on Flickr
1980 T/A with a Pontiac 461

Gone but not forgotten;
1973 T/A 455
1975 T/A 400
1978 T/A W72
1982 T/A cross fire injected

Two wheel toys;
2014 Harley Ultra Classic Limited
2013 Honda CB1100
2010 Yamaha Vmax
1982 Yamaha Seca 750

Chewey

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #2 on: February 16, 2023, 09:13:39 PM »
The biggest issue I'm trying to solve is flexibility with running the lines where I want them. I just removed the A/C suitcase to install a Vintage Air system and those lines will stick out like a sore thumb I think. That is a tight spot for sure, but probably solvable with a 90* fitting.
-mike

78 Trans Am 400 Auto (Dec 06 HPP)
76 Trans Am LE 455/4sp w/ t-tops (1 of 110)
2020 Rally Green Camaro 2SS
02 Trans Am CETA Convertible M6 #1949 (sold)

DeVilliers

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #3 on: February 17, 2023, 12:09:37 AM »
I don't have this particular set, so can't comment on it, but I have braided lines running without issue.
1979 Trans Am

Wallington

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #4 on: February 17, 2023, 03:36:06 AM »
What's wrong with original lines, or reproductions? Assuming you still want to plumb it to the radiator.

Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #4 on: February 17, 2023, 03:36:06 AM »

rkellerjr

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #5 on: February 17, 2023, 07:15:17 AM »
I too have braided lines on my '75 without any issues which I bought from Summit Racing.

highway star

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #6 on: February 17, 2023, 11:11:44 AM »
Installed a cooler on top/middle of the front air dam then ran rubber hose to the trans hard lines. The cooler gets good airflow from the two holes under there.

Chewey

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Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #7 on: February 20, 2023, 02:28:50 PM »
I do have repros on there that function well, but I want the ability to reroute them which hard lines don't allow for.

I appreciate the info and confirmation from those who have done it. Time to open up the wallet again!
-mike

78 Trans Am 400 Auto (Dec 06 HPP)
76 Trans Am LE 455/4sp w/ t-tops (1 of 110)
2020 Rally Green Camaro 2SS
02 Trans Am CETA Convertible M6 #1949 (sold)

Re: Braided lines for transmission cooler?
« Reply #7 on: February 20, 2023, 02:28:50 PM »
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