Automatic Transmission Flush

I'd like to get some input from the forum on how I can perform a transmission flush on my 3rd gen without a machine.

The process for a second gen is described here:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/diy-full-flush-for-automatic-transmission.68462/

My truck is a 3rd Gen, 2017 TRD OFFROAD 4X4 w/tow package

As far as I can tell this is the transmission cooler:



As I understand it, the concept of the above thread is to catch the fluid expelled from the radiator (in the case of a truck equipped with a tow package, the transmission cooler) as new fluid is put into the transmission. So, if I disconnect the cooler outlet hose from the diagram, can I expect the same results? Also, is there any concern of causing issues by introducing air into the line?

@mountain lion

 

Bump.

 

subd

 

Can't seem to find the thread that I posted to and which has instructions to do what you are seeking - but...

If you have a tow package which has the transmission cooler do the following:

If you drain the fluid from the Transmission pan you must be sure to replace an equal amount back into the transmission though the filler hole located on the upper side of the transmission - DO NOT do the process described below without having the proper amount of fluid in the transmission pan first.

The bottom feed on the tow package trans cooler which is located closest to the passenger side (roughly middle of the unit) returns cooled fluid to the transmission - it attaches to the top tube where it goes into/thru the radiator. This is the location where you want to disconnect the hose for flushing the system.

I used the spray-pump method. Connect the spray pump hose to the steel/aluminum tube (where you pulled the oem hose from). New fluid will be pumped into the transmission from here. Catch the fluid coming out of the system from the loose end of the hose you disconnected which should be still connected to the outlet of the tow package trans cooler. Catch the fluid as you will want to measure the volume which has come out and ensure you put the same amount (via the spray pump) back into the system.

NOTE: Having an assistant to helps this make it much easier as you can ensure you do not pump too much fluid out of the transmission while performing the flush and fill.

Pin the Trans cooler pump thermostat open - under the passenger side up near the front tire (push the button in and slip a thin paper clip though the housing to hold the button down).

Start the vehicle - foot of brake ALWAYS and shift from P - N - D - S and back to P. Allow the system to discharge NO MORE than 3 quarts (recommend less to be safe) into your catch container and turn the vehicle off. Takes about 15 - 20 seconds to pump out this much fluid.

Measure how much came out and put that amount of new fluid back into the system.

Repeat three more cycles (takes about 10.7 quarts to do a full flush) or 12 quarts total - the fluid coming out will be cherry red by the time you complete. Be SURE you put back in same the volume of fluid as you took out.

Re-connect the hose from the external cooler to the tube. Un-pin the thermostat. Start engine and check for leaks.

If you are sure your fluid level was good before undertaking this process you should be good to go.

I used a scan gage II to check my trans temp to do a fluid level check. There is another thread on how to do this. I actually added extra fluid after completing the flush and fill - then checked the fluid level and allowing any extra fluid to be removed from the system via the transmission fluid level check plug (not the drain plug).

FYI - Lube Guard makes a WF Transfluid that meets/exceeds Toyota requirements and is compatible with WF so you don't have to worry about chemical/mechanical contamination issues. Some say use Toyota product - your choice. Oddly Toyota says their WF fluid is life time - mine at 40K was nearly shot (cherry red color was gone and was coffee brown).

 

@GoldenBrew Thanks for taking the time to write this up. I spent quite a bit of time preparing for a full flush, but ended up draining the pan and refilling. I’ve committed to doing this during other scheduled maintenance. This way, the process is a whole lot easier. It delivers the same results, but is achieved over a longer period of time. I’m ok with this “compromise” because this schedule seems to match my needs: lots of dirt, 4x4 and a decent amount of towing (when it tows though, it’s tough- not a whole bunch of weight, but pulling some serious grades)

 

@TacomaVirus

VVV This and follow link in first post - Again some don't know what they are talking about as evidenced by comments and opinions without fact.

 

What opinions and not facts?

I agree it needs to be changed more than Toyota recommends

 

@DCJeeper

 

Thank you!

 

I did just this but instead of stopping at one drain and refill I completed 5 cycles with each time cycling through the gears. This essentially removed 90% of the old fluid.

 

You are not removing 90% of the old fluid. Old and new fluid is instantly mixed in the pan.