Trans fluid change

[got9toes]

I need to change my trans fluid and filter in my 1998 Jeep Cherokee.
Is changing the fluid that drains out when I drop the pan and filter enough, or should I have it flushed and if I have it flushed should I change the filter before or after flushing?

[Ray H]

Originally Posted by got9toes

I need to change my trans fluid and filter in my 1998 Jeep Cherokee.
Is changing the fluid that drains out when I drop the pan and filter enough, or should I have it flushed and if I have it flushed should I change the filter before or after flushing?

If the fluid is still bright red and doesnt smell burnt, if you arent having any problems or it hasnt been contaminated, if there isnt metal flakes or black sludge in the pan, I wouldnt bother with a flush. Just drop the pan and change the filter and refill with Dexron. Most AW4s run real nice and clean and it probably wouldnt require anything more than draining the pan and replacing fluid but I always like to drop the pan for a look see anyway.

[crys36]

I concur. If it looks and smells good and not alot of crap in the pan just drop it, change or clean the filter. You used to have drain plugs in the converter to get out extra oil but with lock-up 1s there are no plugs. You should be able to get 3-4 quarts out by droppin the pan. Hint--take all the pan bolts out except for 1 front and 1 rear. place a big pan under neath and choose which 1 you will loosen. just run 1 of them out and give the pan a little crack on the side and out will pour your fluid. if the pan starts leaking right away it means its not stuck up there and should start leaking all over. Then loosen the 1 you left in and the pan will tilt down to dump fluid. When you take the pan off and clean it look for bent corners and dimpled up bolt holes. If u have them take a ballpeen hammer and hit each hole on a hrd surface like the edge of a bench so its staight or -- slightly dimpled the other way. This way when u go up with new gasket ther are no bolt holes that will dig into gasket and corners of the pan should be straight or slightly up. Using silicone is your choice but no heavy beads. I prefer not to use it. if its done right you won't need it. Do not over tighten the bolts or you WILL crack the gasket or at least injure it---Chris