To change or not to change, that is the question

[Divino92]

Just drop the pan, change the filter, and fluid. Don't do a flush.

That is all I planned to do. Really just want to change the filter for the most part!

 

[NC_John]

Whats the problem with a flush and getting the torque converter and the cooler? Edumucate me here. I'm scared to do anything at this point but will start light towing with it soon and the fluid is the lifeblood of the tranny. Wish I knew if it had ever been changed before.... that'd make me feel better if it had at least once.

thanks.

 

[Divino92]

Whats the problem with a flush and getting the torque converter and the cooler? Edumucate me here. I'm scared to do anything at this point but will start light towing with it soon and the fluid is the lifeblood of the tranny. Wish I knew if it had ever been changed before.... that'd make me feel better if it had at least once.

thanks.

Im pretty sure it is because the older fluid has some of the banding material and such floating around, almost as a friction additive. When you flush the converter and add new fluid it slips a lot more and ruins components

 

[91RS]

My shift servo finally came in the mail today, so I was thinking about changing the trans fluid and filter while I was under the tahoe. I have heard many horror stories of people changing it and then the trans ***** out a few days later. I bought the truck with 131k on it, has 142k right now. The fluid looks nice and pink, doesnt smell or appear burnt. Any feedback is greatly appreciated, thanks guys and gals.
Dave

I would bet that most of the time the people that have these "horror stories" already had a problem to begin with, they just wouldn't admit it. If the fluid is already a nice pink/red color, someone has most likely taken care of your truck and you'll be fine to change the filter. Just use Dex VI as it is an upgrade to Dex III and is fully compatible or if you want to go one better get Amsoil.

 

[NC_John]

Im pretty sure it is because the older fluid has some of the banding material and such floating around, almost as a friction additive. When you flush the converter and add new fluid it slips a lot more and ruins components

Thats about as good a reason as I've ever heard but then how does the tranny work when new and the fluid is clean? I thought it was the new fluid is full of "fresh/active" cleaning solvents/additives and that perhaps they disolved/stirred up any sludge in the tranny but a mechanic buddy of mine said the tranny's don't sludge so thats not it.

I wish somebody knew for sure what the deal was. I'd hate the change the fluid in mine and create a problem I don't have now but if changing it will freshen things up and help me get another 100K out of it, then I'm all for it.

 

[chauncey0337]

So, I was intrigued by this thread and did some research. I've only heard stories and never knew exactly why some transmissions fail after a flush. From what I've learned, a trans flush is not always a bad thing as long as long as it has been done on a regular basis, every 50 or so, to prevent build up of harmful particles. If the trans has been neglected and has a flush, the solvents in the flush disturb sludge and debris and causes damage as it circulates through the system. Even though dropping the pan and and refilling only changes about 1/4 of the fluid, it should be sufficient. This is just what I have read. Anyways, if you're interested, read this thread from GM inside news. I found it to be very informative-
http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f53/transmission-flush-good-thing-11073/

 

[91RS]

the solvents in the flush disturb sludge and debris and causes damage as it circulates through the system.

That is the problem right there. NEVER EVER use solvents! A transmission flush should only replace the old fluid with new fluid and nothing else. No additives, no cleaners, no snake oil.

 

[NC_John]

Anyways, if you're interested, read this thread from GM inside news. I found it to be very informative-
http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f53/transmission-flush-good-thing-11073/

I went through the entire thread but is seemed to just have the same questions and opinions we have here.... This one is as good as "which engine oil is best" for differing opinions.

I guess I'll get my coolant done first- I've not heard of any engine failures due to a coolant flush and exchange... I'm still on the fence about doing the tranny.

BTW- your 'hoe looks great. Perfect stance and the wheels I want for mine. How much is it lowered- 2/3"?

---------- Post added at 03:26 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:23 PM ----------

That is the problem right there. NEVER EVER use solvents! A transmission flush should only replace the old fluid with new fluid and nothing else. No additives, no cleaners, no snake oil.

Now that makes more sense but do the new transmissions/fluids tend to sludge up? My mechanic friend said they don't. If that is the case doing a straight exchange, old fluid for new, shouldn't cause any problems that weren't there in the first place.

 

[chauncey0337]

BTW- your 'hoe looks great. Perfect stance and the wheels I want for mine. How much is it lowered- 2/3"?

---------- Post added at 03:26 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:23 PM ----------

Even if you don't use solvents, some flushing machines actually force the fluid through the trans which can disturb debris and cause damage. And some machines use the same pressure that would normally be caused by the pump. So, make sure the correct fluid is being used, duh, and flush at your own risk
Thank you sir. Actually, it's a 0/0 drop, stock height, lol. I think the angle I took the pic makes it look more level.

 

[NC_John]

If I do it it'll be here in the garage so only the transmission pump itself will move any fluid (if I let it drain out of the pressure line to the cooler rather than just drop the pan and change only whats in there). No flushing aids or cleaning agents...

I guess the bigger wheels fit the wheelwell better. Looks great.