Opinion on fluids change on '00 Limited AWD

[MuscleJunkie]

So as some of you might have read, I picked up an absolutely pristine 2000 Limited AWD 5.0 last year. It was a one owner vehicle and due to the previous original owner's extreme discipline - it was practically brand new even with ~140k miles. The truck runs absolutely flawless. Also getting about 16 - 17 MPG with city driving and about 21 to 22MPG with highway driving (5.0 V8 - measured by mileage and fuel used - seems to be consistent with the screen readout too.) Had the truck out at the beach last year and the AWD worked flawless in the deep sand - drove about 50 miles on the beach.

I am now faced with the choice to change out the tranny, rear, difs and other fluids (already did Motorcraft Oil and Filter). Many have told me to NOT change the tranny fluid - but I am torn on what to do.

Any opinions on these fluid changes. The original owner was very matter of fact about certain maintenance items and had a strong distrust for dealer and other mechanics. He did most items himself except for the warranty issues. I'm not clear if or when these specific fluids were changed.

Thanks!

 

[koda2000]

when service history can't be verified, assume everything needs changing. brand of your choice, but don't go with the least expensive (eg: Valvoline OK)

rear diff - 75W140 full synthetic + Motorcraft LSD additive
front diff - 75W140 hypoid gear oil
trans - Mercon V ATF (I'd just do the pan and filter = around 5 qts)
T-case - Dexron/Mercon ATF
Power Steering - Mercon V ATF
brake fluid - DOT3
cooling system - flush and then a 50/50 (or 60/40) mix of a quality antifreeze (I use Peak or Prestone, whichever is on sale).

All of this information is in your owner's manual. Use a Motorcraft or Wix trans filter. Your fuel economy is right-on with my 2000 AWD.

Tip: Before you drain the diff's, make sure the fill plugs can be removed.

 

[1998Exp]

A bit weird that someone who takes such good care of his truck won't keep any maintenance records...
What does the tranny fluid look and smell like? These 4R70Ws are very robust. I wouldn't hesitate to change if it's pink to orange and no burned smell. Dark brown and smelly is a different matter - but you would probably sense that something is wrong in such case anyway.

...
Many have told me to NOT change the tranny fluid - but I am torn on what to do.


Thanks!

 

[MAS Tequila]

If you do change the trans fluid, don't flush it out.

Just drain it and refill, use no cleaning\flushing chemicals.

MT

 

[drdoom]

It may be possible to drain the torque converter as well. Some V8 have access hole and drain plug.

 

[koda2000]

It may be possible to drain the torque converter as well. Some V8 have access hole and drain plug.

add another 7-8 quarts of fluid if you do drain the TC.

 

[pcam13]

add another 7-8 quarts of fluid if you do drain the TC.

Yes. Just have a friend to help you out while bumping the flywheel around. Saves lots of time...

Drop the pan drop the TC fluid and be on your way. If your transmission isn't strong enough to accept new fluid it should be replaced anyways. New fluid will do no harm... If you have copious amounts of crud in there then there are bigger problems to worry about.