We decided to upgrade to a...
We decided to upgrade to a PML sand-cast aluminum pan with cooling fins when we changed the transmission fluid in our '02 Ford Super Duty F-250 that's equipped with the 4R100 automatic. We also used a NAPA transmission fluid filter, a 30-quart pan to catch the old fluid, some brake/carb cleaner, a new pan gasket, a Scotch-Brite pad, Loctite, gloves, a case of ATF oil, and a funnel for adding the fresh fluid.
Using the "Full Transmission Flush" coupon from your local lube shop may seem like a good idea, but you probably won't get the level of service you expect. Many quick lube shops do not replace your transmission filter when that flush is performed; and it should be exchanged for a fresh factory unit every 30,000 miles. Check your truck's service receipts and see if you were charged for a filter. Do you think they wouldn't charge you for a new filter if one was installed? It can't hurt to drain your own fluid and get a personal look at what's going on inside. Plus, it's a perfect time for a transmission pan upgrade.
A Fluid and Filter Change at Home Will:
Improve poor shift performance
Prevent transmission slippage
Repair ATF failure caused from running too hot
Not replace all fluid in the cooler lines and torque converter
Not fix a damaged transmission or broken internal hard parts
"Many shops do not replace your transmission filter when a flush is performed."
 Once we had everything needed...  Once we had everything needed for our do-it-yourself transmission fluid and filter change, we removed the plug and drained the used fluid into the catch pan. We used the biggest pan we had to assure there would not be any overflow. For some reason, landlords don't like used ATF coating the driveway. |  After the oil has drained,...  After the oil has drained, you can remove the transmission filter and the transmission pan gasket (which can usually be re-used). Check the gasket for tears or any damage that could interfere with a tight seal being formed. |  Check the bottom of your transmission...  Check the bottom of your transmission pan for metal shavings, excessive particles in the oil, and any chunks of foreign material. Stuff that feels like sand in the oil is actually clutch material. Examining what is in your pan will help you know if the automatic is in danger of self-destructing. |
 When you remove the transmission...  When you remove the transmission filter, make sure the rubber gasket on the feed tube is not left inside the transmission. If it doesn't come out with the filter, you'll need to go fishing and pull it out of the transmission so it does not interfere with the new filter. |  Since we were in total control...  Since we were in total control of this operation, we decided to go the extra mile and bust open the used filter for examination. A look at the clutch material trapped by the element gave us a better idea of the conditions inside the 4R100. |  Aftermarket filters (bottom)...  Aftermarket filters (bottom) are available, but we feel more comfortable using an original equipment part made by the manufacturer. Our Super Duty is four-wheel drive, so we made sure to get Ford's 4WD filter, which has a longer tube to pull oil from the sump. |
 The PML transmission pan is...  The PML transmission pan is made in the USA, has a higher capacity, uses fins to disperse heat, and comes tapped for a 1/8-inch NPT temperature sensor. You should add a transmission temperature gauge if you don't already have a way to monitor the conditions inside your automatic. You need to know if the temperatures have reached critical levels where fluid breaks down. Any time your transmission hits 250 degrees Fahrenheit, you should replace the fluid ASAP to prevent a transmission failure. |  We installed the new filter...  We installed the new filter after checking for remnants of the old gasket inside the transmission. Next, we used a Scotch-Brite pad to clean the gasket mounting area in preparation for the new PML transmission pan. |  We used a new transmission...  We used a new transmission pan gasket, but you can re-use the factory gasket if it appears to be in good shape. (Do not use silicone to mount the gasket because it can end up inside your transmission.) We used Loctite on the mounting bolts to keep them secure. |
 With the new pan in place...  With the new pan in place we started to add the factory-recommended transmission fluid. If you don't have your service manual, you can usually find the recommended fluid listed on the transmission dipstick. We added about six quarts before we started the Super Duty and checked the level while the truck was running. With the new PML pan in place we were able to add 12 quarts of fresh fluid. The new pan gives us lots of extra capacity and we will know exactly how many miles are on the new filter. | | |