Just bought 2006 SR5 V8 4WD. I already searched. Transmission drain or flush?

kcwater · 2014-12-09T04:52:19+00:00

I promise I already searched and read tons of threads about changing the transmission fluid. Been stalking and shopping for 4runners for awhile now, and bought mine today. It's a white 2006 SR5 V8 4WD with 125,000 miles. Everything is in great shape, but I'm having the nearest Toyota dealer do some work for me (Capital Toyota in Chattanooga). Service records are non-existent, so I don't know if it's had a timing belt, water pump, or any fluid exchanges in the transmission. I'm having them do the belt, pump, thermostat, tensioner, as well as replacing cracked axle boots. BlackWorksInc has made several very helpful posts on the matter, but I want to make sure I do the right thing for my situation. The Toyota tech said he could flush it for $189, and the engine is running during the process. I'm not sure if this implies a fluid exchange or a power flush, but he did say a machine is hooked up to do it. He did confirm that it would break loose sediment when I asked about it. Pretty sure I don't want a power flush. Seems too risky. Alternatively, he said he could do a drain and fill. The service manager said go for the flush. He said they've done it on tons of Toyotas with over 100k that have never been flushed before and it hasn't hurt them. I'm skeptical. The conservative alternative is a basic drain and fill, or do nothing according to this: http://freepdfhosting.com/cd481dc8ae.pdf I went through this same dilemma on my 2004 Chevy 2500 HD 4wd when it was having tranny problems at 120k. Local shop said power flush it, dealer said just drain and fill. We did the drain and fill, and the transmission was toast shortly after (it probably was doomed either way, as it was already the 2nd transmission in the truck. The first transmission change came at 30k under warranty). Anyway, what should I do on my 4runner? I really don't want to F it up right after i bought it, so I'm leaning towards either do nothing or drain and fill. I realize it will only partially drain it and make a small impact on dilution unless they drain and fill multiple times or I do it myself multiple times with driving in-between. Not sure how hard the vehicle was used in the past, but it's in excellent shape, so probably nothing crazy. My use will involve lots of curvy mountains roads and occasional towing of boats and trailers. Thoughts?