Hello all!
Total noob, first post...
So I have a 2011 LE V6 60K miles... I LOVE IT - I tow a boat in the summer time once a week
I *think* I want to do some maint and I KNOW I should ask all of y'all before I do....
transmission - fluid only? Or drop the pan and do the filter- is there one? Link for the best how to?
Magnaline filter - LOVE the idea - how and where do you install it? Any videos for that?
What do I need to do for the differentials? I did 5 ton trucks in USMC 20 years ago - same deal? Suck dry and refill??
Best place to get parts? Guess online is much better than a dealer...
Thanks to all - I'm sure this is a beat dead horse thanks for a few final whips for me.
Noobie transmission & diff maint
Re: Noobie transmission & diff maint
Welcome!
With only 60k miles a drain and refill should be all you need. With automatics I like to do it every 30k miles. Auto's don't have filters really, they are just metal strainers. Most of them can be cleaned, but you shouldn't need to mess with it at only 60k. You can install the filter inline with your trans cooler.
Diffs are just like you remember. Drain the fluid out, and replace till it comes out the filler hole. Don't forget to replace both crush washers! Also check to make sure you don't have an LSD. If you do, then you'll need LSD additive.
Check out www.courtesyparts.com
With only 60k miles a drain and refill should be all you need. With automatics I like to do it every 30k miles. Auto's don't have filters really, they are just metal strainers. Most of them can be cleaned, but you shouldn't need to mess with it at only 60k. You can install the filter inline with your trans cooler.
Diffs are just like you remember. Drain the fluid out, and replace till it comes out the filler hole. Don't forget to replace both crush washers! Also check to make sure you don't have an LSD. If you do, then you'll need LSD additive.
Check out www.courtesyparts.com
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atraudes
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Re: Noobie transmission & diff maint
Two things to be aware of about the Magnefine filters: it should be installed on the return line, and be aware that they sell 3/8" and 5/16" filters. The 3/8" was too big for me, and the 5/16" was perfect, though I can't offer any help on which one will fit yours. If you tow, a transmission cooler would probably also be an excellent idea. Check out the "Should I install an auxiliary transmission cooler" question in the General Info page.
Personally I don't bother with the rock catchers in the transmission. The openings are far too large to catch anything useful. If that thing is plugged up, your transmission has already grenaded. The only positive thing I can see about replacing it is you get chance to see if there are any chunks of stuff in it.
If you want to replace all of the fluid in the transmission, your best bet is a transmission cooler line fluid exchange (also on the general info page) which lets you collect the old oil as it comes out, and have it fill itself up with fresh oil. If you're regular and diligent about fluid changes, a drain and refill should be plenty though.
Sorry I can't be of more specific help. We don't have too many R51s on this board, which is probably a huge testament to their durability!
Personally I don't bother with the rock catchers in the transmission. The openings are far too large to catch anything useful. If that thing is plugged up, your transmission has already grenaded. The only positive thing I can see about replacing it is you get chance to see if there are any chunks of stuff in it.
If you want to replace all of the fluid in the transmission, your best bet is a transmission cooler line fluid exchange (also on the general info page) which lets you collect the old oil as it comes out, and have it fill itself up with fresh oil. If you're regular and diligent about fluid changes, a drain and refill should be plenty though.
Sorry I can't be of more specific help. We don't have too many R51s on this board, which is probably a huge testament to their durability!