How much ATF should be changed at main service?

[Opie]

If over 60k, why not just drop the pan, replace the strainer, clean off the magnets and then refill. That way you'd be getting all the fluid except what was in the torque converter.

If you are worried about pressure flushing...and want to get all the fluid. An alternative way to "flush" would be to disconnect the lines from the transmission fluid cooler, put the output line to your drain pan and the input line to your new fluid container and let the transmission pump transfer the fluid. Just watch until the fluid is clean....

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by Opie

If over 60k, why not just drop the pan, replace the strainer, clean off the magnets and then refill. That way you'd be getting all the fluid except what was in the torque converter.

If you are worried about pressure flushing...and want to get all the fluid. An alternative way to "flush" would be to disconnect the lines from the transmission fluid cooler, put the output line to your drain pan and the input line to your new fluid container and let the transmission pump transfer the fluid. Just watch until the fluid is clean....

Brilliant. I'm using that from now on.

[pope]

Originally Posted by Opie

If over 60k, why not just drop the pan, replace the strainer, clean off the magnets and then refill. That way you'd be getting all the fluid except what was in the torque converter.

If you are worried about pressure flushing...and want to get all the fluid. An alternative way to "flush" would be to disconnect the lines from the transmission fluid cooler, put the output line to your drain pan and the input line to your new fluid container and let the transmission pump transfer the fluid. Just watch until the fluid is clean....

Originally Posted by Ultramaroon

Brilliant. I'm using that from now on.

This has been the diy trans flush method for decades. The big thing to be aware of, you generally want to use a large volume of fresh fluid (think gallons) to avoid accidentally sucking air.

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by pope

This has been the diy trans flush method for decades. The big thing to be aware of, you generally want to use a large volume of fresh fluid (think gallons) to avoid accidentally sucking air.

I figured it's an old method. I've picked up a few great ones here. Thanks for cautioning about the amount required. Makes sense.


I love learning new tricks, especially the forehead slappers like this one. Keeps me humble.