'99 v70xc transmission/radiator problem

[ssmlauck]

I have a '99 v70xc (108K miles) that has been shuddering while shifting gears. It's not a consistent problem, although it happens about 60% of the time. I've been driving it like this for about 3 months. The dealership says that my radiator is leaking coolant into the transmission and I need to replace both (cha-ching!). However, I've had two other mechanics tell me that they can see no mixing of the fluids. Upon further questioning, the dealership says that they performed a chemistry test and detected glycol in the lines, and that "even a miniscule amount can indicate this sort of problem." Friendly local mechanic still insists that if the radiator were really implicated, there would be alot more than "miniscule" amounts of fluid mixing, considering the types of problems I've been having. Anyone have a failed radiator/transmission due to trace amounts of glycol in the lines, or any input?
Thanks!

[Ozark Lee]

Replace the radiator, flush the transmission, change the oil.

I think that covers most of the bases for under $250.00. It will likely run another 500k from there.

...Lee

[dejongmc]

The only place where coolant can get into your transmission is via the radiator. So if there is really coolant in your transmission, the radiator should be the problem.

But I would first change my transmission fluid see if that makes a difference. IMO a miniscule amount can not give shifting problems as you describe. Old fluid or burt fluid does.

[uwackme]

If the radiator is working otherwise, then get an aftermarket tranny cooler, and install it, and plug the connections on radiator. End of problem for $50 and an hour's work.... with added benefit of better cooling for both tranny and engine.

Im going to move both tranny and oil cooler function to aftermarket ones this spring, mounting them in a manner that those heat loads dont adversely affect the intercoolers job. Too bad you cant move the AC condenser too