Time for a fluid change

[JPC]

I know this has probably been discussed before, and I did a search, but didn't find any specifics to my application. I have a 99 5.0 AWD, and have no idea the model number of the trans in it, but was wondering:
1. What are the opinions as far as synthetic vs. mercon v (cost to performance when towing)
2. Should I do a pan off change and drain the converter (if that's possible with this trans/converter combo) or just have the shop do a flush, even if I'm changing to synthetic.

Any opinions/experience would be gratefully appreciated.

 

[techieman33]

merc 5 is just a spec the fluid has to meet, could be synthetic or dyno oil. You would be better off with synthetic fluids. And yes you can drop the pan and drain the converter.

 

[JPC]

OK thanks, I thought mercon was a ford product. Anyway, is it better to do a pan off change, or is a flush good enough if you're changing from dyno/synth to fully synth?