Changing manual tranny fluid

[Whimsey]

I'm getting ready to change out the Mercon ATF(and yes it uses ATF, not gear oil) in my 2002 F-150 with the 5 speed manual transmission and was wondering if it's best to warm the transmission up first or can you change it cold. I'm replacing the Ford factory fill Mercon with Schaeffer DexronIII Supreme synthetic blend ATF, # 204S. Hopefully this will improve the feel of the shifting and quiet the grumbling coming from the transmission when shifting. I figured I'd try the Schaeffer's first before I have Ford "touch" the transmission and most likely make it worse.

Whimsey

 

[sbc350gearhead]

I would imagine you would want to do it cold.....I wouldn't know why it would need to be changed hot.

 

[timzak]

Everything I've read and heard states to warm the transmission fluid before draining. This allows a more complete drain.

 

[moribundman]

I'd say you want the transmission fluid warm, but not hot - unless you plan on pleasing the gods with a burned-flesh sacrifice.

Also, make sure you can get the filler plug out BEFORE you remove the drain plug.

 

[Mike_dup1]

I agree, change it after it is warm, like after you have driven it for a log jaunt. It can take some time for a manual trans to warm up to temp. I drove my Trans Am for about 30 min and it was still only slightly warm to the touch.

Any contaminates with be in suspension and the oil will flow out better and more completely.

 

[Whimsey]

Thanks guys. Warm it shall be, hopefully not too hot to add to the many burn scars I already have

. And Morib, good advice to make sure you can remove the fill plug before you empty the transmission!

Whimsey

 

[Hirev]

quote:

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Originally posted by moribundman:
I'd say you want the transmission fluid warm, but not hot - unless you plan on pleasing the gods with a burned-flesh sacrifice.

Also, make sure you can get the filler plug out BEFORE you remove the drain plug.

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You guys are phunny

And A good tip on the fill plug also. Some of thoes sure get tight after a few years.

 

[unDummy]

Not being able to refill a component after draining is one of the biggest causes of disgruntled backyard mechanics.

"If you can put it in, don't take it out!"