to drop the pan, or not to drop the pan

[dotrp]

My '01 Sequoia has 121k on it and I figured it was time to flush the transmission. I also figured I'd drop the pan and change the filter like a good boy, but after searching the forum, I found the following:

• the 'filter' is really just a screen, so I can just clean the old one
• dropping the pan is a total PITA and may not be worth the trouble
• it might be a good idea to install an in-line filter

Are my findings correct?

Sooo, should I drop the pan, or no? I don't want to have to start dealing with a leaking pan. OTOH, it might be kind of 'fun' to see what's in there.

[dezert_rida]

Originally Posted by dotrp

My '01 Sequoia has 121k on it and I figured it was time to flush the transmission. I also figured I'd drop the pan and change the filter like a good boy, but after searching the forum, I found the following:

• the 'filter' is really just a screen, so I can just clean the old one
• dropping the pan is a total PITA and may not be worth the trouble
• it might be a good idea to install an in-line filter

Are my findings correct?

Sooo, should I drop the pan, or no? I don't want to have to start dealing with a leaking pan. OTOH, it might be kind of 'fun' to see what's in there.

At that mileage, it would be worth it to check the screen for metal shavings and dump it out.

When you pull the pan, be careful not to bend the ears. Dont pry on it with a screwdriver! You can take a putty knife, and lightly tap between the trans and pan in a horizontal fashion, to break the seal.

When you clean the pan and trans mating surface of all old gasket material and oil, use some hi temp rtv, or Toyota black silicone, and tighten up in a uniform fashion.