Transmission service question

[montytm26]

Hey guys,
I'm almost due for the first 30,000 mile tranny service and have a couple o questions. Being a job 1, it has the external filter. I called the local dealers the other day to get prices, and both said there is no need to change the filters, just the flush with the cleaner and new fluid. I made sure they new it had the external filter on it and they said that's what Ford recommends. I though about buying the filter and doing the flush and change myself. What does everyone think? Is it ok not to change, or do both myself? BTW, my Spartan should be here Monday, that's why I want to get it done ASAP!!

[freeride707]

is it even possible to flush it yourself? i thought there was some special machine to do it.

[montytm26]

I know that you have to have the fluid heated to operating temp to open all the valve bodies for a complete flush. You could do this yourself, but it would take 2 people to do it. Basically heating the fluid while driving, then staying through the gears on stands while your filling, draining the system. The big question is whether to change filters or do what the dealer recommends and just flush, or do it myself and flush with the filter change?? Someone has had to have done this there selves, chime in guys!!

[freeride707]

you should always replace the filter. you can get away with every other fluid change on the internal filter but you should do the external filter every fluid change

[Shinny]

I had mine changed to keep my warranty. I also have a Job 1 and the filter change wasn't really an option. I wanted it changed and when they took it off, it was dirty. IMHO, I wouldn't run new fluid through a dirty filter.

[Down2Ride]

How much was it for the filter change? I asked the service dept. At one of my local dealers, they said that the filter was about $250.

[Shinny]

The service was $320. They tried to add almost $200 more for the filter and labor. When I finished showing them the error of their ways, it was $320.

[DustTruck]

My manual states 60k miles for the first tranny flush... ?

[Shinny]

I think that those of us with the external filter need 30k flushes and internal filters can go 60k between flushes.

[dgeesaman]

Originally Posted by DustTruck

My manual states 60k miles for the first tranny flush... ?

For basic service schedule, yes. I think it says 30k for the "severe service" schedule.

If you're a DIY'er I'd just buy a new filter and drain out the pan twice. It'll get your fluid about 80% changed out. If you do that every 30k you'll be doing very well and spending much less than $320.

Dave