Towing Issues: F350 AUTOTRANSMISSIONS, transmission coolers, failure problems

Question
I HAVE 1997 F350 PWSTK CRWCAB W 55,000 MILES. AUTO TRANS. NO PROBS TO DATE BUT AM THINKING ABOUT PURCHASE OF 5TH WHEEL OR TRAILER. I HAVE HEARD THESE FORD RIGS HAVE TRANS FAILURE PROBLEMS WHEN TOWING. PERSONELL ADVICE PLEASE. UPGRDE TO TRANSMISSION AVILABLE? OR NEWER TRUCK OR MOTOR HOME. BOTH HAVE BEEN SUGGESTED TO ME. 34FT TO 38FT TRAILER IS WHAT I AM CONSIDERING. NOT SURE OF WEIGHT. THANKS

Answer
Well, this question has me at a semi loss..

Some transmissions were subject to failures due to overheating of the fluids and burning of bearings in them...

There are several ways to solve that, with extra transmission coolers, larger transmission pans, better service of the transmission...

But hard to say if a newer truck or getting a motor home would be better... I am sure a salesman would recommend new vehicles... With out knowing more about the trailer you are looking at, hard to say what you should do. Its weight is a key...

For what its worth, your truck has low mileage and that is a plus... You might be able to have some modifications done and be able to use your truck... Check with some transmission shops and if you have a trustworthy RV dealer them also.