Transmission refill not going great

[n2audio]

Did some work on the Aviator today.
Replaced the catalytic converter system, and replaced the trans filter.

I've done some reading and a lot of people are saying they're only getting about 3 qts out when they drain/drop the pan and replace the filter.

Well, my 7 qt drain pan is full close to the very top, so I got at LEAST 5, probably about 6 qts. The trans was rebuilt by Lincoln about 30k ago. I suppose it's possible they had a bit too much fluid in it.

So I put 6 back in. When I started the engine to see how the flow looked it was a little bubbly (symptom of an over-filled trans, right?), and not a very steady flow.
Should I just let it drain for a while? Should it smooth out eventually?

 

[JHG120]

You know, I recently did mine as well and had same results.

I filled back in what I measured of what came out. I started engine and did test, and was bubbly at first. I let the engine warm for about 10 minutes to watch the flow. It never got very steady, so I pumped some more fluid in, which took away the bubbly and started a slow drip. Well, I filled some more in and sure enough, it started to flow as it should. Steady, but not super fast steady flow.

So, I buttoned it all up and had great results from drain and fill.

I sold the Ex 3 months ago for a Pathfinder.

 

[Mr Dubya]

This is the Ford service procedure for checking/filling the transmission - follow it to a tee and do not deviate from it. My experience has shown me that there is really only one way to do it and be confident in an accurate level.

 

[n2audio]

Ok, thanks.

It seemed like I had put plenty back in -- but maybe not. It started to clear up and bit and the stream slowed down.
I took it for a test drive and it seemed generally normal but MAYBE a bit slow to down shift during acceleration.

I won't be able to work on it for a few days, but my wife will be driving it locally. I may do another check later in the week. Might try adding a little more fluid.