One other possible issue... If there was any water contamination inthe tranny fluid from a cooler leak the fluid will push out the dipstick at 212?. That might explain how the temp light never came on ( assuming its working).

ATF should have a flash point of about 365?f. If the fluid was really that hot and smoking if should have a burnt smell.

365? is really hard on seals and of course toasts the fluid. With any luck you might just need a fluid change.

Kevin

87 Turbo Intercooled Raider, roller cam, torsen rear diff, LSD front diff, lockup auto with modified converter, V6 brakes, low transfer case gears...