newbie questions on changing trans fluid

[deeman]

I have the 5R44E 5 speed auto transmission on my 06' 4cyl 2.3l Ranger.

I am planning to change the trans fluid tonight. I am unclear about how to BEST drain the fluid stored in the torque converter. Some say, get all the fluid out from the pan, then start the motor really quick to flush out the converter. This sounds damaging.

What's the best way to do this?:

Also, what's the thought to switching to full synthetic fluid for the refill?


Thanks!!!

 

[exbass94]

Disconnect one of the lines going to the cooler and put it in a bucket or other container. Make sure the pan is full of fluid. Start the engine for a few seconds until 1-2 quarts gets pumped out. Stop engine and add a quart or two, or if you have someone to help you, you can add fluid as the engine is running while the old stuff is being pumped out. Repeat until all the old fluid is replaced with fresh fluid.

This is the ONLY way to change ALL the fluid in the trans, including the torque converter, aside from hooking it up to a flush machine (which does the exact same thing anyway, just easier and more efficiently.)

As for fluid use ONLY Mercon V, NOT regular Mercon. Good luck finding a full synthetic. I tried looking for it for my truck, and couldn't find anything except Amsoil, which I'm not a fan of. I wound up using Valvoline, which is only a synthetic blend.