jonas's RX

Hi gang

Q

Can anyone confirm if the factory auto OEM transmission filter is " Paper or is it metal ?"

When I called Lexus part , two different parts guys tell me the replacement internals are metal
Just like the original filter . Is this correct ? Everyone on the forums
Always think the original replacement is paper ?

The Lexus parts guy also tell me they don't carry the replacement and Lexus
Does not recommend this part as part of the auto transmission service ?

Thoughts ?

Thx

thomas1

The original in the RX300 was a metal screen filter, replacements eventually went to paper. Either filter will work, however there are a lot of thoughts that the paper restricted fluid flow more than the metal screen (makes sense). However the paper is superior for filtering purposes....I would recommend you follow the tips guide at the beginning of this forum for the fluid change. Lots of good info.

jonas's RX

Thx Thomas

What I can't figure out is everyone states the factory replacement is no longer a metal filter screen but the Lexus parts guys are all saying it is metal screen

I don't have the factory part number handy but it just seems odd we have different information then the official word from le us . Has anyone bought the factory OEM filter and is it metal screen ?

Tx

thomas1

In the past, 5 years ago everytime I went an ordered filter from Lexus, it was paper. Years ago everyone was scrambling looking for the metal screen filter, some dealerships had it some didn't. Easiest way is to go to their parts department and have parts man pull filter and see what it is. The Metal screen is real obvious.

jonas's RX

Strainer/filter35330-06010

Here is the part number from lexus
And they have to special ordered the part

Does anyone have this part from lexus ?

thomas1

Just call a Toyota dealership and ask if they have it and see if it is a screen or paper. The parts people are very knowledgeable.

hypervish

I purchased 35330-06010 this past summer from Amazon (link below) and it was a paper filter. I installed it anyways.

fastnoypi

When i attempted to change my trans filter, i was sent a paper filter. I had correspondence with Lexus and they verified the OEM filter was metal in the early years and could be reused. If i recall the discussion, the paper filter was introduced sometime in the 2003 model run.

jonas's RX

I am wondering how easy is it to " clean " the metal tran filter ?
The other Q is once you change to paper filed , I would imagined
you would have to pull out to change every 15K ?

What do you guys think ?

salimshah

Metal screen is good to keep large particles out. The element (paper) filter should block the fine grey mist of particles very common in RX transmission (as some gears wear out). Cleaning is easy with parts cleaner or gasoline. When I cleaned mine, it was all clear.

I would suggest monitor the fluid that comes out when you do a drain. If it is greyish then you need to drop the pan and change the filter. If it is clear then consider changing the filter at 60-90K.

Opinions vary., at the end choose a number that makes you happy.

Salim