Hey everyone, new here and looking for some insight.

The vehicle is a 2008 Tribute V6 2WD. Belongs to my sister in law who is living on a tight budget. Used mostly for short commuting never towing.

The inlet flare fitting to the cooler bypass valve is leaking. I'm going to try and re-flare it and reconnect it.

However, if I can't, my next fix is to eliminate the valve altogether, as this vehicle is likely going to end service in 5 or 6 months.

Should I straight pipe the cooler in, or eliminate the cooler altogether, and just run the input straight to the return. The trans will experience cold weather (-25 or more Celsius).

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.