Tranny Fluid Change Interval
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
Tranny Fluid Change Interval
Hello All,I own a 2000 X, V10, 4X4 with 48,000 miles on it. I was wondering if someone could tell me when I should change the tranny fluid? Should I change just the fluid or should I change the filter also? I love this truck as it has been running perfect since I purchased it on 10/99. I know the old saying, "If it aint broke, don't fix it" but I'm a believer in good prevenative maintenence. Thanks for your help.
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 4,968
Likes: 3
From: So Cal
Tranny Fluid Change Interval
Like the guy said check the owners manual. If you tow, it is probably around every 12K miles. The filter should be replaced each time.
When you do the change, be sure to look at and smell the old fluid. It should smell nice and "chemically" not burnt. It should be red, not brown or black. Pink is barely acceptable if the fluid is old.
Also check what is in the bottom of the tranny pan and the drain pan. Any chunks of metal bigger than say a grain of rice? All you should normally see is some very fine perr looking flakes, maybe a half teaspoon worth is normal. Check the magnet(usually donut or square shape) It will collect any metal floating around. You don't want to see any big chunks. Normal is a kind of fuzzy grey/silver coating.
Check the fluid level during the first week after changing to make sure it doesn't drop too much due to leaks or more likely air stuck in the system. Then check the level regularly between changes. Always use a white rag to check for color and give it the sniff test.
Doing this regularly will lead to a long life for your tranny.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
When you do the change, be sure to look at and smell the old fluid. It should smell nice and "chemically" not burnt. It should be red, not brown or black. Pink is barely acceptable if the fluid is old.
Also check what is in the bottom of the tranny pan and the drain pan. Any chunks of metal bigger than say a grain of rice? All you should normally see is some very fine perr looking flakes, maybe a half teaspoon worth is normal. Check the magnet(usually donut or square shape) It will collect any metal floating around. You don't want to see any big chunks. Normal is a kind of fuzzy grey/silver coating.
Check the fluid level during the first week after changing to make sure it doesn't drop too much due to leaks or more likely air stuck in the system. Then check the level regularly between changes. Always use a white rag to check for color and give it the sniff test.
Doing this regularly will lead to a long life for your tranny.
Good Luck,
Jim Henderson
