Hey guys..
Im 17 and just got my first lexus. Even with all the miles, it drives like a dream. I'm trying to get more in-tune with my car, so I am debating doing a tranny fluid/filter change.
I did it on my Oldsmobile, so I figure it should be somewhat the same.
My only concern is changing the fluid with this many miles on it, react to the tranny?
Like, if the current fluid is somehow lighter, and the new fluid isnt, im worried about it not getting to all of the components.
It shifts a little rough at high RPMs, so I wonder if this will do anything..
Any input on this, let me know.
Thanks, Dalton

 

sure go ahead and do it. 282k miles could really use a tranny fluid change.

but just to make sure you are able to unscrew the fill plug first and then open the drain plug
it happens very often that those plugs get seized badly. if you drain the tranny and then cannot fill it, you are in deep trouble.

 

Indeed, I believe he is talking about the differential fill plug, it is a biotch to remove, right next to the driver side CV joint. Just try not to round it off.

On my 96:

The other thing is the drain plug, an allen socket and wrench will not fit there so just use the same allen bit and a 10MM wrench and another box wrench to gain leverage to break it loose. Fill until it drips out the fill hole the plug her up.

Remember it is 36ft lb torque. I would also get new crush washers as well. 3 in total.

Just note, not all the fluid will come out, the torque convertor will hold some old fluid as well. If you do several changes ever 1000 miles, it should get most of the old ATF out but not all, it will just dilute.