Trans Fluid Change...Do or Don't

[IN2FORD]

Looks like I am going to buy a 95 Explorer. I have been hearing some stuff about servicing the trans that does not make sense. I have always serviced an automatic trans every 30k, but I have heard from several people that with an Explorer trans, it is better to not change it. And if you do expect it to go bad. Something about the new fluid does something to the seals inside...I don't know it just does not make sense to me. Any explanations???


IN2FORD
Barry

 

[Redrig]

That theory is for high mileage trannys that have not been service regularly. Theres many opinions here on that. Your best bet is to search that topic here. Theres lots of info on it.

 

[88vert]

How many miles are on the 95?How does the fluid look.I have always changed mine every 15000 miles,and have never had a explorer tranny problem Knock on wood

 

[Alec]

It's better to err on the clean side (changing every 20k miles or so). However, if you have a tranny that has gone over 60k miles without a change, a fluid change could hasten tranny failure. Though if you're having tranny problems with this "dirty maintained" tranny, it's 50/50 on whether you should try to fix it with a fluid change or just wait until it blows up entirely.

It's kinda the same priciple as changing to synthetic motor oil on an older motor. While synthetic (tranny change) is generally better, it may cause problems in an older motor (poorly maintained tranny).

 

[IN2FORD]

The 95 has 109k miles on it. I did a search and gained a little knowledge. Looks like the best thing to do is change the filter every 20k for a while. I REALLY want 88vert's truck but with the holidays and we just sold our house...no time to travel to Iowa.

Who offers a shift kit for the 95 and what trans does it have?

IN2FORD
Barry

 

[88vert]

What are they asking Barry?

 

[88vert]

Barry

It has the 5R55E

 

[Mbrooks420]

Actually in 95 it has the 4r55e. The trans shop that rebuilt my second trans put a shift kit in and I hated it.

 

[Opera House]

My 97 had 107K with real nasty fluid

I started out with a couple of pan droppings. Fords just seem to make a lot of sediment. Threw in five extra magnets. There was stuff every time I changed it. I added a cooler. It had only the one in the radiator and that is probably the reason it was so nasty and burnt. Also added an external filter. Make sure you use the newer internal felt tranny filter. Finally did a pump out flush. Long story short, everything is nice, clean and running fine at 145K. Check VB bolts.

 

[IN2FORD]

Thanks for the info!! How do you hook up the external filter system and who makes the shift kit for these transmissions?

88VERT-I am able to buy it for $4500 plus taxes. It is in pretty good shape...new Michelin tires and such. If everything goes right I should buy it today...sorry 88VERT. I have got to get started moving out of my house and into the rental until I get my new one built. Hopefully by next fall we'll be in the new one.

Thanks again for the info...this website has helped me in alot of ways in helping me buy an Explorer.

IN2FORD
Barry

 

[88vert]

Go for it barry Sounds like a great deal

 

[Mbrooks420]

Oh, and welcome to the site