the original stock/dealer super-thick rubber gasket can be reused as long as its not damaged or deformed. each new filter/gasket kit will come with a new gasket. i much prefer the rubber gasket kit from Advance auto over a cork gasket. i hate cork gaskets.

ATF drain/refill only replaces about 1/2 of the total volume of fluid. the rest is locked up inside the torque converter, valve body, OD unit, etc. and its just as dirty and nasty as the stuff you drain. the new ATF immediately mixes with the old and becomes semi-dirty. so you need to "catch up" by replacing it at least twice.

there's also another reason that i swear by. you'll notice a lot of gray colored sludge on everything inside the trans. its the band and clutch erosion and its what stops up filters, coolers, check valves, governor pressure sensors, and everything else. the new fluid is full of detergents that dissolve the sludge back into suspension, which then catches in the new filter. its my theory that a single ATF service, when long overdue, can lead to trans failure by clogging up the new filter. this risk is eliminated by doing multiple services. it doesn't matter the interval, 1-2 weeks, just so its not too long.

don't let your tranny look like this.

 

so i did just a fluid and filter change to see how that works and now when i put the truck in N the stick is reading that it is dry but i put all 4Qs of atf+4 in it. Is there a special way to get the fluid to drop down so the sticks reads that there is fluid in there.

 

Dude, you need to add more. 4 qt's is just a starting point. It might take up to 6 or even more. Just keep adding a little and checking.

 

ok thanks man cause the people at advance was like yea all you need is 4Qs and thats it. ill go and get some more then... this might sound like a stupid question but i can add fluid as the truck is running or do i need to shut it down when i am adding the start it to check

 

Get a Haynes manual while your there and download the service manual from the FAQ/DIY section. This way you don't have to ask those, umm, inexperienced people anything.

Oh and sorry forgot your other question. Running and in neutral.

 

ok i got then manual but didnt see anything in there about how to add the fluid. thanks. so ill just keep the truck running as i add the fluid then. thanks zman you have been extremely helpful sorry i am such a tard at doing this.

 

Running and in neutral. Don't forget to set the parking brake.

 

Yes Sir

 

Speaking of brakes, adjust the rear shoes since you are already working on it today.

 

add about 1/2 quart at a time.

it'll probably take 6 quarts for your 46RE.
the 4 quart capacity is the old small pan RH and 727.