This is a bit of a dated thread and for those of you that waded through the muck, I wanted to post a couple of current thoughts:

Based on input on FTE and consultation with some folks that know more than me, 2 things:

First: I wouldn't recommend running the updated filter/pan and not have a filter in the external filter canister. If you re-plumb to remove that canister, you're fine with just the '08+ pan/filter. There have been reports that the canister being empty can affect the flow to the trans cooler.

Second: I replaced the Mercon V in our Expy's Xfer case (something that came up in this thread). Don't know why, but Ford doesn't recommend Mercon V in Xfer cases, and there are documented cases of them coming apart with that fluid in them.

That's it....

 

That is true for anything after the original Mercon, correct? No SP or LV in the transfer case either?

 

XL-12 Transfer Case Fluid

XL-12

 

So if the '08 internal trans filter is better, then I might want to look at doing that upgrade.

I cannot for the life of me or my mechanic get the external Toilet Paper filter out to be changed.

So, I changed the internal pan filter on my current stock pan.

I just am not wanting to spend the money for a new external housing.

Would this be a better option, if I changed the internal filter on the '08 setup every 50K miles.

 

Correct, no SP or LV in the transfer case.

87crewdually posted the part number for the motorcraft fluid. You probably have to go to the dealership for the XL-12 (or get it from FordParts.com).

I have used the Royal Purple Synchromax since 60k miles (at 191k now).

Probably a lot of choices, but the Mercon Dexron III spec (very similar to Mercon spec) would be what you look for if the above two choices didn't satisfy you.

 

it's funny this thread got resurrected yesterday because yesterday I installed this upgrade.
Went from the OEM pan and screen filter to the '08 filter and pan.
I also installed a new on-hand TP bypass filter.

I had 18 quarts of SP, on hand, now having 9 left for a flush in the future.

oh, and that pesky 0-ring wouldn't willingly give up. The key is to pull it straight down since it's a siliconized metal collar. I'll have to post a pic of this "custom tool" I used when all else failed trying to remove it.

 

Pages and ages ago, someone mentioned this and I found it works and works well.

I didn't want to waste time cutting some all thread so I just coupled two bolts together.
The washer that works best is the largest that will fit.
I used a (Hillman M8x24) Metric Fender washer that measures 15/16"
(that's the top washer) The larger lower washer is just for leverage.

 

Yes, I went back with SuperTech DexIII/Merc for the Expy's xfer case, but since it is an active clutch case, I'd like something along the synthetic lines, so thanks for posting that, Mark

FYI: John has put this thread in the Tech Folder, so when the subject comes up again, it'll be easy to find.

Preston: I absolutely would do the updated pan and filter in your situation. It is absolutely fine if that old filter stays in that canister forever, as it is a bypass filter so when it clogs, it just is completely bypassed (and all the oil sent to the cooler will go to the cooler). And the 6.4 guys, last I checked were doing 60K filter change intervals. Since I'm a bit OCD on something like this, I'll change the filter at that mileage, but likely do a dump and fill of the fluid at half that, say 30K... Good luck!

 

Just curious, but how does it bypass? Does it sense a restriction and cut off flow completely to the filter itself? Or is it possible for contaminants from the plugged external filter to gain access back into the system somehow?

 

Amsoil is stating that this will work in the transfer case:

Applications
AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF is recommended for transmissions, hydraulics, power steering systems and other applications that require any of the following specifications:

Ford MERCON*, MERCON* V, ESP-M2C166-H, FNR5, M2C924-A; GM DEXRON* III, DEXRON* II, AutoTrack II; Chrysler ATF+4*, MOPAR* AS68RC, 68089195AA; Allison C-4, TES-389; BMW 7045E, 8072B, LA 2634, LT 71141; Honda ATF-Z1; Hyundai/Kia SP-II and SP-III, Red-1; Idemitsu K17; JASO 1A; JWS 3309, 3314, 3317; MAN 339F, 339 V1, 339 V2, 339 Z1, Z2 & Z3; Mazda ATF-M III, ATF-MV, F1; Mercedes-Benz 236.1, 236.2, 236.3, 236.5, 236.6, 236.7, 236.9, 236.10, 236.11, 236.81, 236.91; Mitsubishi SP-II and SP-III, Dia Queen ATF-J2; Nissan Matic-D, Matic-J, Matic-K, 402; Saab 3309; Shell 3403, LA 2634; Subaru ATF, ATF-HP; Suzuki 3314 & 3317; Texaco ETL-7045E, ETL-8072B, N402; Toyota Type T, T-II, T-III and T-IV; Voith 55.6335.XX (G607), 55.6336.XX (G1363); Volvo 97340, 97341; Volkswagen/Audi G 052 162, G 052 990, G 055 025; ZF TE-ML 03D, 04D, 05L, 09, 11A, 11B, 14A, 14B, 14C, 16L, 16M, 17C, 20B, 20C, 21L

Notes: (1) This specification has been updated from Mercon to XL-12 Specification Number ESP-M2C166-H or equivalent

 

Chris: I've been looking for a thread we had not too long back (I think Dom started it), where the subject of running the canister empty came up and how on another site, there were folks talking about higher trans temps when the can is empty.

I haven't found it yet, but will post the link here when I do -- it had a Ford document with a description of fluid flow through the bypass filter and to/from the cooler, and IIRC a specific warning about alterations possibly causing higher trans temps.

on edit, found it:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...s-upgrade.html

Someone like Mark K. would have to comment on the possibility or likelihood of your scenario playing out leaving the filter in forever....

 

This thread by Jack should also be in here:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...on-a-6-0l.html

 

Thanks Scott. I think as soon as I do the pan upgrade I will just leave in the filter and replace it along the maintenance guidelines.

 

I was able to change mine as well. And then I used some silicone grease to make sure it would both seal and come apart easily in the future. I have one more external filter on the shelf and will at least change it one more time. I'll be interested to see what the old one will have captured, as it will have been run the whole time with the updated internal filter...

 

Scott, does the part number for the pan that you posted on page 1 include the gasket? I saw the gasket separately for about $33, but I couldn't tell if anyone supplied the gasket with the pan. Tasca seems to have the best prices.