I have a B3000, 2003 model with 55k, 3.0, auto trans. It runs and shifts great but I am wondering if after 14 years the auto transmission fluid and filter should be replaced. The fluid is still red in color and does not smell burned that I can tell. What do you think? TIA,

 

Ford recommends every 30k according to my 2004 service manual.

The first time my '04 had the trans serviced was at 90k. That was evident as the yellow dipstick plug was still in the bottom of my pan when I serviced it. I will service it again when it hits 130K in a few months. The OEM service schedule is a bit overkill but changing the fluid is a lot cheaper than having a transmission rebuilt.

 

If it smells burned then it's a bit late, lol

Low miles is a blessing and a curse for any vehicle
Blessing is that interior and exterior wear can make the vehicle still look new

Curse is that because of the low miles you can bet it was started and driven "dry" more times than you can count.
Drive train oil, grease and seals are susceptible to the same effects of gravity we all are, so oil and grease will move down, leaving upper parts "dry".
If you have a daily or weekly driver then everything stays lubed/wet, when it sits for longer periods each time it is driven it will get more wear than it should.

When transitioning a low miler to a daily driver you will often start to get leaks from seals that have dried out.

So I would change the ATF and filter, based on time not miles


Also, but not related, I would spend the $65 for a 2nd transmission cooler.
What kills automatics is heat, sweet spot fluid temp is 190-200degF, like engine coolant,
ATF temps above 210degF takes miles off trans life

 

Excellent advice from both of you. I'll schedule time with my mechanic and ask about installing an extra transmission cooler. I plan on driving this truck for at least 10 years.

Edit: where does a second transmission cooler mount? How difficult is it to change the transmission fluid and filter? Is this something that I can do myself? I have a floor jack and stands and I have done a lot of my own wrenching over the years but I have no experience with transmissions. Also, if I am to do this job, what is required besides the filter, gasket and fluid?

 

Hi sorry if I am in the wrong forum but couldn’t navigate to start new post. Does anyone know if a manual transmission marked 1L54 will fit my 1992 Ford Ranger 4.0 2x2. Thanks