I was talking to a friend about my transmission cooler and he said that I should add an inline filter too. I've never heard of this, anyone suggest an inline tranny filter? There's one in the pan on the pickup, why would I need another?
I run a external tranny fluid filter on my 4x4 chevy, The filter in the pan works good for the most part but when it comes down to a 2,300 dollar tranny I always like to be sure. I use a Perma Cool brand remote filter kit. The mount also has the option for a temp gauge wich I also run. The filter just gives you about another quart capacity and really helps the cooling. Almost every heavy duty RVer/tower that runs an automatic trans uses a external filter in conjunction with a good cooler.
All of my F-250's have been factory prepared for towing but I've never run a filter. I've never had a tranie problem so I don't see the need on my Fords. GM's seem to self-destruct more often hence a filter may be a good idea. I've installed several B&M filters for my Bowtie friends. Most after-market filters use an oil filter such as you'd see used to filter engine oil.
I've seen some pretty trick in-line filters that incorporate cooling fins in an anodized aluminum housing, they don't cost very much either. I don't think they are "necessary" but I've also heard repeatedly that for every 10 degrees cooler you can run your ATF you will...double the life or add a year...now I cannot recall which...DOH!
I run a remote trans filter, sits right next to my remote oil filter on the fender wall. Also have a trans cooler and temp gage to keep a eye on my 2500 stall converter. I don't use ( or have a trans cooler in my Howe radiator).