How much Transmission Fluid do you lose changing the Radiator

[pconner748]

Hi Folks,

I just had a quick question. I need to install a new radiator on my 2006 4.0 SR5. I didn't realize at first that there was a transmission fluid cooling lines attached to this. Has anyone done this before? I am wondering how much Transmission fluid, if any, you could end up losing, and obviously ways to minimize loosing fluid.

It seems like one of the more difficult parts of changing the radiator could actually be adding back the Trans fluid since that fill plug is so difficult to access.

Love to hear some thoughts on how others have dealt with this before.

Thanks,
Pat

 

[Cisco Kid]

You won't lose much at all. When I replaced my radiator, I didn't bother adding more fluid.

 

[pconner748]

Thanks Cisco Kid, I am not really sure what to expect. IS there anyway to minimize fluid loss?

 

[fdbyrne]

I'm sure you have your reasons, but why not take the opportunity to replace the coolant while you're in there?

 

[RunnerAK]

Lost a couple drops at most when I replaced the radiator on our V6. I plugged the hoses while they were disconnected to be safe, but they were mostly empty to begin with. I think most of the fluid drains from the cooler back into the trans once the engine is shut down.

 

[dkyleb]

Perform level check procedure after install. Add fluid as needed. Google "drain and fill procedure" for 4Runner

 

[Morphyne]

I'm sure you have your reasons, but why not take the opportunity to replace the coolant while you're in there?

I think you meant transmission fluid. If so. I agree.

 

[fdbyrne]

I think you meant transmission fluid. If so. I agree.

No, I actually meant coolant... but that's only because I misread the title. Good catch.

 

[Morphyne]

No, I actually meant coolant... but that's only because I misread the title. Good catch.

If I were him I would change both, depending of course on age of fluid. I just changed my tranny fluid so I'm gonna save everydrop.

 

[pconner748]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I would change the Trans fluid just such a pain in the ass. They actualy tell you that is should never have to be changes unless the trans needs to opened up for some reason.

 

[fdbyrne]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I would change the Trans fluid just such a pain in the ass. They actualy tell you that is should never have to be changes unless the trans needs to opened up for some reason.

I think that there's enough evidence on this site alone to show that toyota's 'lifetime fluid' isn't actually that. Rumble Strip type torque converter shudders are common when the fluid gets old.

Even the few actual Toyota techs that frequent the site say that it should be changed at some point.

 

[skott]

You won't have to add any tranny fluid. I recently replaced my radiator and zero transmission fluid came out of the radiator. I guess it all drains back into the lines when the engine isn't running.

 

[Cisco Kid]

For your reference, here is the transmission cooler out out of a V8 radiator. It's not very big at all. Like RunnerAK said, plug the lines when you disconnect them and you won't have anything to worry about.

 

[Ju1cE82]

Just replaced my radiator while doing my timing belt last week when I found some evidence of leaking.

I went ahead and pulled the drain plug on the trans, measured quantity that came out and added an extra 1/2 quart. I agree negligible quantity will be lost but why not and it gets 3ish qts of new fluid which isn't a bad thing. Yes checking level is a pain!

BUT....If it was a true "lifetime" fluid wouldn't there be a lifetime transmission warranty?

I use Valvoline MaxLife (after talking with a buddy who wrenches in a transmission shop) although the opinions on here differ...decide for you self.