2003 Sport Trac 2wd with 98,000miles change transmission fluid or no?

[Felix C]

Change the fluid or just maintain the fluid levels?

 

[swshawaii]

At 98K, if your fluid does not smell burnt and isn't too dark I would do a complete fluid exchange and filter change.
Here's one of many posts in the ST sub forum regarding tranny fluid changes. At the very least replace the filter.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=390913&highlight=transmission+flush

 

[Felix C]

I nipped through that thread. So the fluid is considered lifetime by Ford?
No dipstick in this model.

 

[swshawaii]

ALL 2001-05 automatic ST's have transmission dip sticks. On the passenger side next to #1 spark plug
with the yellow handle. No dipstick for the transfer case for those who are 4WD. (See pages 193-194)

http://www.fordservicecontent.com/Ford_Content/catalog/owner_guides/03p27og4e.pdf

 

[Felix C]

Aw thanks man.

 

[sickwilly]

I would suck out a couple of quarts at a time for the next couple of oil changes with an oil extractor, till the fluid looks better. Then drop the pan and do the filter.

Its not superstition. Its from past experience. Trannys with old burnt fluid do better with a slower replacement of the fluid, and then a new filter, versus shock of new fluid and a filter.

And NEVER NEVER NEVER do a fluid flush on an old tranny.

 

[Felix C]

Transmission was all good. Just straightforward fluid and filter change. Color and smell were ok.

Thanks to everyone who helped out.