inline trans filter only - skip dropping the pan?
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Joined: Dec 2012
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From: Lake Stevens, WA
inline trans filter only - skip dropping the pan?
I was considering replacing the inline magnafine trans filter in the cooler line during my next trans fluid change and wondered if I could skip the pan drop by religiously using an external filter, whether inline or bypass.
Found this link on magnafine fleet vehicle recommendations - using their filter allows fleet folks to skip the pan drop unless there are mechanical concerns.
Magnefine Fleets
I seem to remember Mark K commenting that he's seen transmissions that have 300K and the internal filter looks fine, and that dropping the pan is unnecessary.
Sure would make the job easier, but want to do it right. I'd still do the fluid changes at 30K, as recommended, using the procedure of idling the fluid out through the cooler line and filling via the dipstick tube. Comments?
Found this link on magnafine fleet vehicle recommendations - using their filter allows fleet folks to skip the pan drop unless there are mechanical concerns.
Magnefine Fleets
I seem to remember Mark K commenting that he's seen transmissions that have 300K and the internal filter looks fine, and that dropping the pan is unnecessary.
Sure would make the job easier, but want to do it right. I'd still do the fluid changes at 30K, as recommended, using the procedure of idling the fluid out through the cooler line and filling via the dipstick tube. Comments?
Senior User
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 311
Likes: 1
I use the magnefine filter on my ps system and use DieselSite's external spin on filter for the Trans. Also have an FilterMag on the outside of the spin on. I get a Blackstone report every other Trans fluid change and it looks perfect. I change the internal filter every 4th time and it has never been dirty. Just a piece of mind thing
Butt-Head
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 9,415
Likes: 2,911
From: Reed Point, MT
Exactly. If you have the NEED to replace that filter, you NEED to have the transmission fixed because it's broken.
Frmr Ford Trans Engr
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 24,704
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From: SE Florida
It is a good idea to run an inline filter, IF it is changed regularly. If not, you're better off without the filter.
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 17,988
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From: La La Land
I personally believe that a good filter in the cooler line is one of the best things you can do for your transmission's long-term health.
I used a spin-on type, and use high-gauss neodymium magnets on the filter flange to catch the fine ferrous debris, and the filter itself to catch any clutch wear material.
My trans has over 225,000 miles on the original parts. The first time I pulled the pan I found the normal sludge and the ring magnet was pretty-well covered. Now, if I drop the pan, it's absolutely spotless inside.
Again, I think filtration is a GOOD thing, no matter how you do it!
Just as a side note, the Allisons in the Chev & GMC rucks use a spin-on that's built right onto the trans. Guess they thought it was a good thing, too, despite their cost-cutting mentality.
Pop
I used a spin-on type, and use high-gauss neodymium magnets on the filter flange to catch the fine ferrous debris, and the filter itself to catch any clutch wear material.
My trans has over 225,000 miles on the original parts. The first time I pulled the pan I found the normal sludge and the ring magnet was pretty-well covered. Now, if I drop the pan, it's absolutely spotless inside.
Again, I think filtration is a GOOD thing, no matter how you do it!
Just as a side note, the Allisons in the Chev & GMC rucks use a spin-on that's built right onto the trans. Guess they thought it was a good thing, too, despite their cost-cutting mentality.
Pop
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 17,988
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From: La La Land
DieselSite's Bob Riley has a 6.7, and I suspect he'll be on top of any add-ons for the newest design.
I know he has a pretty-slick dual-Dahl water separator for them that might also be of interest to you.
Pop
I know he has a pretty-slick dual-Dahl water separator for them that might also be of interest to you.
Pop
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 12,242
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From: Houston, Texas
I've had a magnefine filter on my HD4R100 since it was installed at 127k 7 years ago. Even now almost 300K later, the transmission still shifts smooth and firm.
The first one I didn't know I was supposed to change after 30K and left it on for 200K. When I pulled it and replaced it, I had it cut open and found a horrendous amount of filth inside. Between the shavings and the gunk that filter caught, I was and still am convinced that Ford did something good installing it.
The first one I didn't know I was supposed to change after 30K and left it on for 200K. When I pulled it and replaced it, I had it cut open and found a horrendous amount of filth inside. Between the shavings and the gunk that filter caught, I was and still am convinced that Ford did something good installing it.
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Got Data?
Joined: Dec 2012
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From: Lake Stevens, WA
All right, I'm on my second since owning the truck, every 30K. I'll keep doing it. I was toying with a derale thermostat to put in its place at one time, but not hearing alot of success with it, so another magnafine will go in at the next ATF change.
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2010
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From: Gary,Indiana
Jeff I agree don't even bother with the pan filter but I am going to have to go on the record as as saying I had a problem with a filter made by Magnefine filter same dumb as plastic housing. Well it blow apart 1/2hr after fresh rebuild trans. Trans fuild everywhere (6 qts) Since then I will NOT use any filter unless it has a metal housing. That's just me and I have heard many guys have good luck with them. But I was the 1 in 1000 to get a bad one. That is still way to many times a chance to be dead on the side of the road needing 6 qts. of AFT and I caught it as soon as it blow so I am sure there is a chance that you could lose even more AFT and maybe even a smoked clutchs.
