How do I change the transmission fluid in my automatic ’04 2500? No, this isn’t the first time the fluid’s been changed; just the first time we’re not paying someone else to do it. Also, what brand of fluid/filter is best? Currently using an OEM filter; anything better out there? TIA!

 

Pull a couple of the back bolts out and thread in some longer ones like 5-6" longer, then go around the pan and loosen the rest out. The longer bolts will let you "hang" the pan to aid in draining it as OEM has no drain plug. I use a suction pump to pull as much out as possible. Once you get enough out to pull the pan off completely, replace the filter (OEM filters are good) As you've stated, you've done this before remember not to touch any of the little drips.... or it'll turn into a river!! Pan gasket is re-usable, so reinstall the pan and top up the tranny fluid and your done!

 

have never done it myself; what do you
mean drips in 2 rivers and cant i just drop the pan if no pump ,where is the filter at

 

if you have a big enough "oil drain pan" to collect the fluid...sure you can "just" drop the pan. I use a "suction pump" cheap at any good auto part store. as for the filter once you pull the pan you'll see it, held in place by 2 torex bolts can't remember size of torex. again, as for the drips, what I meant is after draining the pan and upon removing the filter you'll see "droplets" of tranny fluid "hanging" from the valve body...try not to touch those as the "droplets" will turn into a "river" of tranny fluid. in other words just replace the fliter and try not to touch anything else when the pan is off or you'll have a big mess of fluid.

 

Use only MOPAR ATF4 transmission fluid.

 

Thanks SpLaT and bobczyk for your help!