Inspection and Verification - Automatic Transmission

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Pickup, 2007 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2007 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2007 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Install a new oil-to-air (OTA) transmission fluid cooler as part of a transmission overhaul or exchange. Failure to follow these directions may result in transmission damage.

NOTE: When internal wear or damage occurs in the transmission, metal particles and clutch plate material can travel into the torque converter, the fluid cooler tubes, the radiator in-tank transmission fluid cooler and the OTA transmission fluid cooler. These contaminants are a major cause of recurring transmission concerns. To prevent future concerns, remove these contaminants from the cooling system before placing the transmission back into use.

Clean the contaminants from the transmission fluid cooling system. Carry out the following:
- Transmission fluid cooler-backflushing and cleaning
- Torque converter flushing
- Torque converter cleaning and inspection

Also carry out the transmission fluid cooler flow test. Refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION - TORQSHIFT article.

Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage, incorrect component installation and system leaks. Repair as necessary.
- Install a new or remanufactured radiator when fluid is found leaking from the in-tank transmission fluid cooler. Refer to ENGINE COOLING article.
- Install a new OTA transmission fluid cooler if there is leakage from the fluid cooler, and always as part of a transmission overhaul or exchange. Refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION - TORQSHIFT article.
If the fault is not visually evident, go to Symptom Chart - Automatic Transmission .