New Automatic Transmission Service
New Automatic Transmission Service
(OP)
Why do the new automatics require frequent servicing? I remember when you checked the fluid and except for severe service, NEVER did preventative maintenance on an automatic. Now a lot are recommending fluid/filter changes at 30K, regardless of service duty - in an era of "100K" engine tuneups. Is it due to:
a) Lighter and smaller internals to save space and weight.
b) Higher engine temps for emissions/mileage leading to
higher fluid temperatures and degradation.
c) Substitutes for asbestos aren't are durable.
d) All the above.
Thanks.
Blacksmith
a) Lighter and smaller internals to save space and weight.
b) Higher engine temps for emissions/mileage leading to
higher fluid temperatures and degradation.
c) Substitutes for asbestos aren't are durable.
d) All the above.
Thanks.
Blacksmith





RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
My wifes Lincoln LS gets free service so I have no idea what they have done. I trust her service mgr. to take care of it. As a matter of fact, many dealers around SoCal give lifetime free oil changes and service for "lifetime" non-transferable, of course!
My ex crewchief's 96 Ford SuperDuty 460 never made it to 24K as it self destructed last year. Lost the planitary gears. When I pulled the pan down you could certainly tell that it had a PROBLEM!
That ambulance company uses Fords. How often do they service thier transmissions?
Rod
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
Blacksmith
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
Unfortunately at 60001 miles you are up for a new trans.
The oil at 60000 bears little resemblance to the stuff we poured in.
Cheers
Greg Locock
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
This development is somewhat contrary then what The Blacksmith observed with American trannies. The reason might be that both the transmission design and the driving pattern differ that much that a different maintenance scheme results.
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
Cheers
Greg Locock
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
Blacksmith
RE: New Automatic Transmission Service
Depending on load, environment, vehicle packaging, airflow, etc. a trans might run pretty cool, or hotter than heck....
'some' of the old units would run a long time- and some would self-destruct at an early age!
And there is production variability, too- as an example,
Ford's overdrive trans in the Aerostars (A4OD?) has a mediocre reputation, at best. The one I have is still functioning at 170,000+ miles. It did recieve oil changes at proper intervals, and only pulls trailers occasionally.
oh, well...
Jay Maechtlen