Need advice on automatic trans. fluid change

[90blue5.0]

I am going to change the trans. fluid in my Ford Escape this weekend to synthetic before winter. Last time I did a change I was only able to drain about 5 litres when in the owners manual it states that the capacity is 12.7 litres.

I am assuming that the rest of the fluid is in the torque converter and other areas in the trans. Is there an easy way to get the rest the rest of the fluid out without going to a shop to get a flush? Or would you recommend just draining what I can and leaving the rest alone?

 

[HISSIN50]

Look up or inquire at the dealer (etc) if you have a TC drain plug that you can access. The TC often holds about 1/2 of the system fluid. If you can drain the trans cooler, drain the TC and dump the sump, you should be doing ok.

 

[90blue5.0]

It does have a trans. drain plug. That is what I used last time.

To drain the cooler I assume that I just have to disconect the lower line, right? And what do you mean by dump the sump?

Thanks,

 

[HISSIN50]

It does have a trans. drain plug. That is what I used last time.

To drain the cooler I assume that I just have to disconect the lower line, right? And what do you mean by dump the sump?

Thanks,

Sorry bud - I should have typed acronyms out. TC = Torque converter. On some cars (like stangs) there is an access hole in the bottom of the case. You remove a rubber plug and then can rotate the motor over till the drain bolt is accessible. Then drop the bolt and let it drain.

Good luck.

 

[sgarlic]

I think JT was saying you should inquire at the dealership, etc, to see if you have a drain plug for the torque converter (not the regular tranny pain drain plug.)

 

[90blue5.0]

I will have to check into that.

Thanks for the info.