Tranny Fluid Change??

[red5033]

I just purchased a 98 Expedition 4x4, XLT with the 5.4. The transmission is an E40D. The maintenance books states that fluid change on this tranny is not required. HUH? I am going to be towing with my Expedion and the thing already has 89k, so I wanted to service the tranny. Called the dealer and they say one should sevice the transmission every 30k, despite what the book says. Any thoughts? Also Im told that the dealer doesnt drop the pan when they service, rather they just do a fluid exchange. Thought this was odd considering they want $130. Im told by dropping the pan, they only get about 9 of the 16 quarts out. Any suggestions on which service method is preferred. Also, anyone ever change out the plugs on one of these. Looks like a bear and im told they will not require changing until 100k. Was going to go ahead and do them, as Im getting close to 100k and plan on driving it cross counrty next month with my camper....

Thanks,
Robert

 

[monsta]

Originally posted by red5033
Any suggestions on which service method is preferred.

Also, anyone ever change out the plugs on one of these.

Well...if you were in the bathtub and a big dog came in and took a piss in the tub, would you just drain a bit of it and fill it back up or would you flush all the old water out and replace it with new?

Here's a article to change your plugs.

Changing plugs in a 5.4L

 

[rwinch]

There are several things that SHOULD be done, but not necessarily MAY be done when you have your tranny fluid changed.

A simple drain of the tranny will not get fluid out of the torque converter. If you have the factory tow system, you will also have a tranny cooler, and the fluid will not be changed from there as well. As monsta aludes to, you will still have a lot of crappy fluid in your system.

Go to a shop that does a "Power Flush". This method replaces almost 100% of the fluid with new fluid, cleaning the entire system. They also may have the same thing for your engine oil and radiator coolant systems as well.

Although not labeled as "necessay" unless really dirty, the transmission fluid filter can be changed. I say, why not every time you flush the system? Don't skrimp on a $40,000 vehicle...it just does not make sense!!