Hello this is my first post on this forum. I have a 2003 F350 with a 12v cummins swap. I had a line pressure gauge on the transmission because I am still trying to fine tune the trans controller. Well the gauge busted some how and blew out most of my trans fluid the only thing I had with me was some old regular mercon/dextron 3 so I dumped it in to get me home. I know the trans has a thermostat but I am still Leary about getting all of the old contaminated fluid out. Is there some cheaper liquid that I can flush the old oil out with first? Its probably not possible to remove the thermostat temporarily? Any thoughts/ suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

How much did you put in? This is 17 quart system. To ensure that all of it is out, a complete trans flush is in order, I recommend a good transmission shop do that with the proper tools.

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Mercon SP is a suitable fluid. I have found it at OReilly's for roughly $5/qt.

 

I put in about 6 quarts. I will flush it myself by preheating the oil as it goes in so the thermostat will stay open. I am just concerned if that flush will make it clean enough. I also don't know when all of the old fluid will be out of the system unless I could dye my trans fluid someway.

 

$250 at the dealer is cheap insurance that is done correctly.

 

had mine done (tranny flush) on my 07 f350 for about $120 a Pepboys. Watched them do it jsut to make sure they didnt screw up.

 

Mercon SP or Mercon LV are the only fluids that should be in there.

I'd take it to Ford for a full flush too. I highly doubt your thermostat even opened anyways, but better safe than sorry.

 

I vote ford flush. Not worth the risk.

 

I am taking it to ford in the morning, they quoted me a price of $129 to flush and change both filters. I asked the guy if he was sure and took down his name and all that good stuff. The last time I checked the filters were around 30-40 a piece and the oil from them was $8 a quart!!. Hopefully a few miles with the contaminated oil wont hurt anything. Thanks.