to flush or not to flush

[jeeplj8]

I bought an Ex with 175K on it. I have no idea if the tranny has ever been flushed.

I have heard horror stories of people flushing and then the tranny failing from debris being knocked loose. What is the general recommendation?

[amdriven2liv]

I can't see how a drain and fill type flush would loosen up so much debris as to cause problems. I wonder if the "heated flushing" technique is used when this occurs? I'm just thinking here.

I also think that not changing the fluid will have the same effect in a transmission.

If it were me? 2 choices.

Do a drain and fill a few times to replace the fluid, (which would include dropping pan to change that filter) or:

Take it to a dealer and have them do it, and if something does go wrong with the Transmission, blame them!

My choice? Dealer, with heated flush, and changing all filters for transmission.

[ipz2222]

Keep it simple. Drop the pan, change the filter in the pan and the screwon cooler filter. Install pan and top off fluid, should take about 6 to 7 qts. Do this every 25,000 miles. Can't go wrong.

[jeeplj8]

Are the filters a Napa item, or should I get the MC ones? I am guessing I can order them online like fuel/oil filters.

[amdriven2liv]

I didn't read your sig about it being an 03 Ex. Might want to go read this thread. Your Ex has the 4r100 transmission, thus a different animal than my transmission.

4R100 Transmission Fluid Change - Page 2 - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

One of the posters was an engineer for Ford on these Transmissions.

[amdriven2liv]

Here is a link to another article you might be interested in.

Changing ATF Fluid in a E4OD and 4R100 transmission .: Articles

[jeeplj8]

I thought all 6.0 engines had the 5 speed transmission?

[amdriven2liv]

So did I, until I was looking for filters for someone else, then stumbled on the Excursion Limiteds for 03. Then I was at a loss. Seems they were on the Excursion Limiteds.

Check the door sticker to see what code it gives for your Transmission.

[jeeplj8]

If I understand the legend correctly and TR is for transmission, it is B.

The "window label" that Ford sent me (it is not an actual copy of the Window sticker, it just shows equipment and final price, not option costs) shows 5 -speed Automatic OD transmission.

[amdriven2liv]

Mine is "B" also, meaning yes you have the 5speed.

Here is where I buy all my filters:

Ford 6.0 Liter Turbo Diesel Truck Filters, Air Filters, Oil Filters, Transmission Filters And Glow Plugs - Diesel Filters,Additives,brake rotors, and brake pads for Chevy, Dodge and Ford Diesel Trucks

Save money and buy fuel/oil racor brand, the NTZ external trans. filter is the same as motorcraft. The internal is one choice.