It is important that JASPER has a clear definition and policy that reflects the best interest of our customers and our company.  Past failure to address this issue has allowed misunderstandings within our company and among our customers.

Cooler free flow can range from one and one-half quarts to over four quarts in 20 seconds.  It all depends on the transmission.  We have established the average acceptable flow as two quarts in 20 seconds.  However, we also know that this is not true in all situations.  For example, the Dodge 47RE transmission requires up to four quarts in 20 seconds.

Replacing the vehicle’s system with an external cooler isn’t always the answer.  Consider the fact that the original manufacturer’s system uses the engine’s radiator to transfer the heat from the transmission’s fluid to the vehicle’s cooling system.  Under all conditions, this is consistent, since it is thermostatically controlled.  An external cooler depends on its ability to transfer the fluid’s heat to air, which is a less-effective method.  It is not monitored by a thermostat and depends on constant air flow to be effective.  There are two situations where they could cause a transmission failure.  One is where the air flow over the cooler is interrupted (snow plows, low-speed towing, stopped in traffic, etc.)  A second problem arises in extremely cold conditions where the transmission fluid is unable to warm-up.  In fact, under extremely cold conditions, it could contribute to the jelling of the fluid.

Flushing the system is no longer effective.  The newer-style coolers have complex internal grids used to enhance heat transferal.  These systems collect debris and are impossible to fully flush. Some systems have thermostats that open at 190 degrees.  The bypass on these systems causes a misleading appearance that the cooler itself is being flushed.

Comparing cooler flow as it exits the transmission to the flow after it passes through the cooler is not always effective.  Some Chrysler 41TE and 46RE coolers, that have contamination, could pass a flow test at normal operating temperature.  However, under load or hot conditions, the cooler will restrict the fluid flow to dangerous levels.

The point is, there is no single answer that fits all circumstances.  So, the next time you purchase a JASPER transmission go ahead and ask about adding a new Spectra radiator, cooler kit or flusher rental to your order.  Listed below are three blanket statements that are considered JASPER’s position.  They are listed in order of preference:

1. REPLACE WITH A NEW SYSTEM (RADIATOR).  Check flow to assure lines and check valves are OK.

2. REPLACE WITH AN EXTERNAL.  Keep in mind the above information and flow test.

3. FLUSH THE ORIGINAL SYSTEM.  A heated, hydraulic shock system is the best.  Flush in a can is not acceptable. Always flow test at operating temperature.

Have you ever had one of those pesky leaks on a transmission that you just can’t seem to find? Jasper Engines & Transmissions has created a transmission submersion test to check assembled units for leaks before they are dynamometer tested.

“This procedure was initially developed to check JASPER transmissions for the United States Postal Service,” said Craig Leuck, JASPER Transmission Division Manager. “We developed an internal linkage system for their transmissions and needed a way to check these units for leaks.”

 When the remanufactured transmission is assembled, Associates seal off all external ports and seals, then inject five pounds of air through the dipstick hole of the transmission. The unit is then submerged in a large tank of water and the Associate checks for air bubbles escaping from the transmission. Units will not be dynamometer tested until they pass this crucial test.

“We’ve found this to be a great way of improving the quality of our transmissions to the customer,” says Leuck. “If five pounds of air can detect an external leak, we can eliminate the chance of transmission fluid finding the same leak.”

JASPER currently dunk tests rear wheel-drive Ford & Chrysler transmissions, along with front wheel-drive GM, the 4L80E and 700R4 postal transmissions. Added Leuck, “The goal is to have the ability to dunk test all light-duty transmissions.”

Jasper Engines & Transmissions has a remanufacturing program geared toward customers with a restoration project, or looking for something extra when they get their engine or transmission remanufactured.

In addition to its current product line, the JASPER Authentic Custom Drivetrains division specializes in remanufacturing engines and transmissions that are currently no longer offered, or have been turned away in the past because they did not fit into a production remanufacturing system.

“If you look at the popularity of television shows that highlight vehicle restoration, there’s a huge market of people out there restoring the older model vehicle they have setting in their garage,” says Alex Ernst, JASPER Authentic Group Leader. “One type of client that would benefit from our division, for instance, is the individual restoring a ‘69 Corvette that is wanting his or her serial numbers to match, and wants their engine to be hand-built by experienced professionals.”

“With JASPER Authentic Custom Drivetrains, we spend extra time remanufacturing an engine,” Ernst added. “We give the customer that hands-on, hand-built treatment that our target customer base is looking for.”

In addition, JASPER Authentic Custom Drivetrains provides some extras for the enthusiast. “Customers can opt to have their engine dynamometer tested in addition to the live-run test we perform on most applications,” said Ernst. “And we can provide the customer with documentation of the remanufacturing process. With a login name and password, they will be able to go to our web site and check the daily progress of their engine or transmission.”

The JASPER Authentic Custom Drivetrains also provides a binder and CD with pictures & specifications so the customer can archive for their own records or use it to authenticate their unit as they show their vehicle.”

For more information, call 800-827-7455 or visit www.jasperengines.com.