As for the trans cooler, lay it down at the bottom of the area in front of the core support, or move it outward (toward passenger side), cut a hole in the core support behind it for flow.

One problem I have with your three step remediation plan is, if one of them "solves the problem" the other two are a waste of time and or money since you won't know which one did it. You end up incorrectly believing it took all three to accomplish your objective.

Be systematic. Resist the "throw a bunch of "stuff" at the wall" syndrome. As for the electric fan, it was a crutch. If you "heal" the problem a crutch becomes a hinderance.