I just replace the pressure line for my lower trans cooler line and the tranny fluid was really dark. It looked kinda like motor oil. I am not sure that my trans has ever had any service, so should I just go ahead and change the fluid? I already had to add a quart when I changed the line. Thanks.

 

i would say vary much yes change your fluid and the filter. if the fluid smells burnt you may be to late.

you should do a transmission service every 25.000 mil.
just so you know

good luck

 

I compared the old oil in the catch pan to the new MOPAR ATF+4 in the bottles and they smelled the same.

 

This is my first trans service for this truck as I am not its first owner.

 

Drop the pan, dump the oil, take out the filter and clean the magnet in the pan.

 

Then reattach pan with four bolts and let it drip drain over night. The next morning dump the extra and reassemble and fill

 

All told this method should take about 8 quarts, but don't just throw 8 quarts in, measr=ure with the dipstick in neutral and let the fluid heat up.

 

Dump in fluid until it gets to the very bottom of the OK line then let it heat up by idling for a few min. There's actually a "nominal fluid fill curve" that you should follow based on the tranny fluid temp.

 

What about band adjustment? Being that I am not sure of the maintainence history I would really like to do everything that I can do to have this truck in good shape.

 

If it's shifting correctly, don't mess with the bands, more harm than good can come from it if you hose it up.