I have been trying to clarify the recommended schedule for transmission fluid change. The Scheduled Maintenance Guide for my 2004 F150 states that you should change the fluid every 30,000 miles for the 4R100 transmission, and check the fluid level on all others up to the 150,000 mile service. I do not have the 4R100. At 150,000 miles, the Guide states that the transmission fluid and filter be changed on all transmissions. My dealer recommends fluid change/flush every 50,000 to 60,000 miles on my transmission but agrees that the Ford Maintenance Guide does not require this. A local mechanic at another facility recommends this every 30,000 miles.

 

Follow recommended service intervals according to your manual at least while it is under warranty. Just remember that usage conditions will dictate wear and recommendations usually are for ideal conditions.
I change or flush every 30k. I would change filter at least every 60k if I use my truck for more than driving to work and back or getting groceries. I just dont trust recommendations for long intervals when the only person who is going to pay for lack of maintenance is me.

 

If using a bucket how do you guys measure a couple quarts? Pre-measure using old fluid? I'm probably overthinking this.

 

I the same truck you have except its a 4x2 and service book has no mention of changing transmission fluid. Just rolled over 100K and its still going strong but I think I'm going to inquire about servicing before something goes bad.

 

I do a pan drain&drop anually/every 15K miles. That's about 35% fluid exchange each time. Started that after the first drop at 70K...the pan was pretty dirty with a lot of gray gunk on the magnet, and had the plug in the pan. Installed the Ford pan w/plug for the ease of future drains.

 

I know the book says one thing, but I consider my truck being used as severe duty. I pull a 13500 lb fifth wheel and get it changed every 30k. Leaning on the side of caution

Paul
2013 F-250 6.7