Is it time to replace transmission fluid?

[95EXP4.0]

Is it time to replace the transmission fluid?

I am under the impression that it might be time to change the transmission fluid. I noticed on a couple occausions a "boom" when trying to accelerate from a stopped position. And it seems like it doesn't want to shift into the next gear. One thing I have observed it happened when I was using a/c and it's been at least hotter than 90 degrees+ outside so I'm not sure if it's cooking the trans fluid. Last time it was replaced was 18k mile ago when the trans was swapped at the dealer. I also do a bit of towing with my boat & trailer and other trailers occasionally so I'm not sure what the life expectancy of the tranny fluid is suppose to be. Also I haven't checked what color the fluid is wether it is dark or what the level of the fluid is. I know for a fact that it's not leaking out anywhere. I am thinking about getting an aftermarket trans cooler and maybe an auxilary oil filter for the trans anyone have any suggestions, opinions, or experience with my situation??

 

[jimbo74]

sure, flush it, and add the cooler.... also get the filter replaced.... if that doesnt work, than at least you know what to look for next

 

[95EXP4.0]

Lol....i'm assuming what you meant by next was a new trans eh? By the way you wouldn't happen to have any ideas on what size trans cooler would be good for my application would you?

 

[aldive]

I have a few suggestions for you:

(1) if towing, you MUST have a tranny cooler, does yours have the factiry cooler?
(2)Change the ATF, not just a pan drop but a complete change; filter too
(3) add an external ATF filter,; I love mine,
(4) use synthetic ATF
(5) consider a tranny temp gauge

Good luck.....

 

[jimbo74]

i went to pep boys and got the biggest aftermarket one they had... it was basically bolt on after i figured out i needed to make custom brackets...... it is rated for a class c motorhome being able to tow a car on an auto transport trailer behind it

 

[95EXP4.0]

Yes, it does have a factory transmission cooler I figure it was time to upgrade I definately don't want to encounter any problems in the future. As for the auxilary transmission filter I think I seen one made by Perma Cool that Jeg's sells for about 78 dollars comes with all the hardware to install it and a temprature gauge how about that for a deal?!

 

[aldive]

The factory tranny cooler is quite good, I doubt that needs replacing,

Install the external filter and temp gauge and see what the temps are doing before you "waste" money on an aftermarket cooler.

Good luck.....

 

[95EXP4.0]

Good call! Except how do I know what temprature is bad and what isn't?

 

[jimbo74]

i only needed to replace mine becuase an accident i had ripped my stocker in half