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[97LS]About to do a Trans fliud drain and refill-should I get a new filter?
About to do my trans fluid and just wondering if I should replace the filter while I'm down there. I've been reading a few threads and some people say that it is not needed, but I just want to make sure.
The 'filter' on your trans is more of a metal screen strainer. It's not a paper element like most automatics are. It really shouldn't need to be changed. If you want to drop the pan and clean the magnets you can visually inspect the strainer for clutch material caught in it. There really shouldn't be any. Clutch material or really any material that eventually clogs the strainer means the unit needs an overhaul.
The strainer is often mislabeled as a filter....It has a screen that will stop visible particles but little else, so it should respond well.to a general cleaning.
However,...the 3 cork gaskets on the transmission strainer can take a compression set after 20+ years, subjected to immersion in transmission fluid and exposed to heat may degrade these gaskets.
Purchasing the 3 strainer gaskets individually is almost as much as purchasing the entire strainer assembly which integrates these gaskets.
The strainer is often mislabeled as a filter....It has a screen that will stop visible particles but little else, so it should respond well.to a general cleaning.
However,...the 3 cork gaskets on the transmission strainer can take a compression set after 20+ years, subjected to immersion in transmission fluid and exposed to heat may degrade these gaskets.
Purchasing the 3 strainer gaskets individually is almost as much as purchasing the entire strainer assembly which integrates these gaskets.
1998-2000 LS400 valve body and strainer depicted
Strainer assembly includes gaskets
Is it completely necessary to drop the pan. I have the atf now and was wondering if I can do a simple drain and refill. Like doing an oil change.
If you aren't experiencing any concerns with the trans you don't have to drop the pan. If you want the satisfaction knowing that you magnets and pan are clean after reassembly then you can. Draining the pan and refilling is the best maintenance regiment that you can do for your trans. Every 15-20k miles is reasonable considering how cheap it is to do.
Now, here is the million dollar question: What fluid did you purchase?
If you aren't experiencing any concerns with the trans you don't have to drop the pan. If you want the satisfaction knowing that you magnets and pan are clean after reassbly then you can. Draining the pan and refilling is the best maintenance regiment that you can do for your trans. Every 15-20k miles is reasonable considering how cheap it is to do.
Now, here is the million dollar question: What fluid did you purchase?
Genuine Toyota ATF-Type IV. 4 quarts courtesy
of Amazon
03-19-17, 02:57 PM
[97LS]About to do a Trans fliud drain and refill-should I get a new filter?
