Why should I service my transmission?

The fluid in the transmission will break down due to the high operating temperature of today’s transmissions and can become contaminated from the normal wear and tear of the many moving parts inside the transmission. Degenerated fluid will not lubricate or protect internal parts and the contaminants can become abrasive to the moving parts causing more wear. The filter can become restricted and affect the operation of the transmission. Replacing the fluid will help get the most life from your transmission.

The following information is provided to explain what we do when we service a transmission so you can understand that you get a much better service when it is done at Dave Wilkes Transmissions.

Where does the fluid circulate in the transmission?

The fluid circulates in the transmission between two main areas, the pan and the torque converter. When the motor is running the fluid circulates from the pan to the torque converter through the cooler lines to the cooler in the radiator and back to the pan continuously.

First Pan Service

First the pan is removed, inspected and cleaned. This removes approximately half the fluid. The filter can be replaced and the trans is filled with new fluid. The other half of the fluid is still in the torque converter and in most vehicles there is no drain. Because only half the fluid is replaced, this service would need to be done more frequently. Before flushing machines this was the normal service. We do offer this service, but it is recommended to replace all the fluid, not just half, to allow longer intervals between servicing your transmission.

It’s the best way to service your transmission.

Our Flush with the Pan Off

Then our flushing machine is connected to where the filter goes and provides new fluid to the transmission. The engine is started. With the engine running, normal circulation picks up the new fluid. The old fluid is circulated out with the pan off until clean fluid comes out. Unless severely discolored two gallons is used. A new filter is installed (if applicable). The clean pan is installed. The trans is then filled with new fluid. This is the most effective way to replace the fluid (service the transmission) which allows for longer service intervals.

Others Flush with the Pan On

This is the most common method of flushing a transmission at other service facilities. A fluid- exchanging machine is installed in the cooler lines. The old fluid leaves the transmission from one line then new fluid is added through the other line. While this does change some fluid, the old fluid mixes with new fluid and is diluted in the pan. The pan is not being cleaned or inspected for problems, the filter is not being changed and the normal wear sediment is not being removed from the pan. Usually there are no basic checks before or after the service.