general maintainence questions

[bigbrad123]

I have a 99 GMC Sierra 4x4 with 73k. I have not taken it in for routine maintainence except for oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, etc. I am wondering what services people recommend for general maintainence (ie: transmission flush/filter, lube chassis, check belts/hoses, etc.). I do not want to spend a ton and only want the NECESSARY services. What does everyone recommend?

[public]

Tranny fluid and filter might be in order. NOT A TRANNY FLUSH! A tranny flush can lead to big problems due to the drastic change in viscosity.

[MagicRat]

Public is correct, service the trans every 2 years or so. Don't just have JiffyQuickSpeedy lube suck out the old stuff. Have then drop the pan, clean it out and change the filter. Make sure they clean up the pan magnet and put it back in or install a new one. Ususally these trans mechanics just throw the magnet away, a bad thing.

[curtis73]

These guys speak wisely. I've done the Jiffy Lube special suck-out tranny thing, but it was a specific circumstance on an already ailing tranny. Both good and bad can be said about it, but I just think more frequent pan drops is the way to go. Suffice it to say that until I learn more about it, I can't recommend the flush.

As far as the other stuff, I would say rear axle lube change every 60k. 40k if its a limited slip, or more frequently if you tow or haul a lot. That is pretty easy to do at home. No harder than oil changes, but a little more time intensive. Make sure to use a limited slip additive if needed.

The belts and hoses will talk to you. If the ribs on the belt start to get cracks in them, or if you start to see the white fibers through the smooth side, it should be replaced. Hoses will start to get spongy, hazy, or hard around the edges when they are ready to be replaced, but it can't hurt to check them every 40k or so. I have 90k on one of my cars, but they are goodyear hi-miler hoses and they show no signs of fatigue, but I'll replace them soon just for my own piece of mind.

I lube my suspension and chassis joints at every oil change. I think they don't recommend that frequently, but I figure I might as well while I'm greasy and under the car.

[bigbrad123]

So public, what's the difference between a "tranny flush" everyone advertises and what you are talking about?

[public]

Originally Posted by bigbrad123

So public, what's the difference between a "tranny flush" everyone advertises and what you are talking about?

A flush is where they use a device to extract ALL of the old fluid. Most cars are designed to have a filter change that includes about 1/3 of the tranny fluid. This keeps you from changing the viscosity too much. Just get a haynes or chiltons manual and follow the intervals that are recommended. Good Luck.