6_Myles

Hi All,

Just to document for future use, I did a full system service and flush on my 03 yesterday.

Supplies:
(I get this kit from FCP Euro: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/spr...febi-558600141)
Trans filter
Electrical bushing
15qts trans fluid (I used valvoline max life atf. I’ve had great long term success with it in my other 722.6)
Trans pan gasket
12-24” of 5/8” hose
Normal trans service tools: torx, allen, and sockets.
19mm open end wrench.

Normal procedure for the drain and filter swap. Plenty of YouTube videos on that.

Next, you’ll want to disconnect the transmission cooler line at the radiator. It will be the lowest fitting on the radiator of the two trans cooler lines. It will take a 19mm open end wrench to remove the fitting. see picture below, it’s right above the lower radiator hose.

Now slide the 5/8” hose over the threads on the radiator, you can twist it on to help it to seal.

Point the hose into a suitable container and have someone crank up the car and run for 20-30 seconds at a time. Refill Trans after each interval.

After about 12qts it will start to be fresh fluid coming out of the hose. This will flush the torque converter, cooler, and most of the lines.

Reinstall the cooler line on the radiator and check fill level.

All done!

ldeem

I need to do this as well. Originally I was planning to drain the toque converter as well as pan and change the filter. I have done a similar method you describe on Toyota Camrys.

My question/comment - did you ever do the torque converter method and was this one easier?

Secondly, on the radiator connection is there an O ring or seal that should be changed out while it is apart?

6_Myles

I've done the TC on my 05 CDI, but still wanted to get all the old fluid out of the cooler, so I ended up pulling the return line on it anyways. This way is much easier because you don't need to mess with the TC at all.

No, the radiator cooling line connection is a metal compression fitting. No o-rings or seals I noticed.