1990 J30: Auto Trans Filter or Not?

[Cal Learner]

Here's a basic question for anyone knowledgeable about the older Maxis. Noticed in the maintenance records for my good wife's 1990 Max that there was no record of A/T filter change (she's owned the car since new, now 144K miles, and has every piece of paper ever issued for the car). Doing a search of threads here leaves me confused: is there a replaceable filter on these trannies or not? If there is, why wouldn't it have been changed at least during 30K, 60K, 90K warranty servicing? TIA for clarifying.

[maxhopper]

Yes there is a trans filter on the 90 Max. As for why it hasn't been replaced, I'm not entirely sure. If you had the trans flushed, it is standard not to replace the filter.

[MaximA32]

If you've kept up with the transmission flush schedule, it would be a good idea to change the filter. If, however, you haven't kept up with the schedule or it's been over 130k, now is NOT the time to start as you can cause more harm than good.

[loystock]

If you have no record of prior flush, most shops will refuse to do the ATF flush due to liability issue. If you have transmission issue, it would be a good idea to do a pan drop, clean the pan and magnets and inspect the filter and replace as required. After the pan drop, you can do multiple drain and refill to emulate a flush (not as good as a real flush, though).

[Cal Learner]

Thanks everyone. I'm surprised about the emphasis on flush, as opposed to filter change. Is flush recommended by Nissan? I've always stayed away from flush on my Mercedes because it is not recommended. It is only recommended to drop the pan, c;lean pan, change filter and refill. Anyway, I understand the point about not starting to flush at this late stage. No danger of that happening. Thanks for the info. I'm hearing you say that there is indeed a replaceable filter in the '90 Maxima.