Chrysler Repair: Transmission fluid found in radiator coolant, radiator coolant, chrysler cirrus

Question
Hello,
I got a great deal on a 2000 chrysler cirrus. Problem is it is leaking trans fluid from the radiator. The car is just for basic transportation and i really don't want to put any money into it. Can i just bypass the radiator or the whole trans cooling unit for that matter? I know some older cars didn't even have trans coolers but don't know if this one needs it.

Answer
Hi Jeff,
I would be inclined to get a radiator/transmission cooler unit as these transmissions are very finicky and the cost of a new cooler will be much less than rebuilding the transmission. You would be wise to do that replacement and then to also power flush out all the old transmission fluid using only ATF+4 and getting rid of all the fluid, which is now probably contaminated with coolant. Otherwise you risk a trans rebuild at a cost of nearly $2K.
Roland