Dejan

I came across this video where someone changes his transmission fluid by sticking a vacuum down the dipstick tube and sucking out all the atf fluid:
Does anyone know if there are any risks in doing it this way on our car? I assume this would get more fluid out than draining thru the drain bolt, because not all of it comes out when you drain it. And also it seems easier because you don't have to lift the car and crawl under. One disadvantage is that you wouldn't get to clean the drain bolt magnet though.

I foudn this thread where someone used the pump to change the engine oil on a 3G but haven't seen any mention of it on the 4G forum: https://acurazine.com/forums/third-g...il-1-a-850042/

Anicra

It is interesting idea, if anything you could do more of a quick maintenance of trans as an extra measure to keep it cleaner (minus the magnetic catch.) In general I do my maintenance interval on far shorter period. Like yearly, trans, rear diff and transaxle if I am feeling bored.

csmeance

you could do it, but for the price of the machine to suck out the oil, the extra stuff to clean up after, etc... I'll stick with the traditional drain and refill.

Someone mentioned disconnecting the trans lines at the ATF filter under the battery, attaching longer hoses and having the trans dump out 3.3 quarts of old fluid. Refill with new fluid and repeat after a few miles of driving.

Reorge

I might consider using this device if I had to drop a pan to change the fluid. But all you have to do is removed a drain bolt on our TL. I don't see the benefit.

TheMuffinMan

iTrader: (1)

Drain and refill is just fine. I don't see this saving any time?

potmilkz

this is the longer and more expensive way to change your trans oil.. just sayin

Lee C

Why not just drain from bottom and refill from dipstick tube has anybody tried this. I just did a 3X3 but I used the ATF 17mm plug at the top

csmeance

Depending on the year of car, the dipstick opening is large and can easily fit a funnel vs the older models that have a very narrow opening for the dipstick

Lee C

My opening is large enough for a funnel for sure I added some thru there.
2012 TL AWD

Dejan

The pump method is easier and quicker because you don't have to lift the car and crawl under.

Also there is less chance of spillage. No wear and tear on your drain bolt, or risk of stripping the threads. And you can measure exactly how much came out because the pump has measurements printed on it.

Can anybody think of any risks doing it this way, any way this could damage the transmission? If not, I am going to start doing this, and probably change the oil this way too.

TLer trash

I can't think of any way using a vacuum pump could hurt the trans. You lose the ability to clean the metal shavings off the magnetic drain plug, and in my experience, you'll probably get more fluid out by draining it.

Lee C

I agree next time I do mine it will be drain from bottom fill from dipstick tube.

TheMuffinMan

iTrader: (1)

So how are you going to change the transfer and differential fluid?

You're going to buy a pump, buy tubing, etc all to avoid raising the car up on a lift or ramps?

Dejan

I'm going to lift the car to do those things, but they need to be done less often than oil changes and trans fluid changes.

The pump is only $50 (Pela 6000) and comes with all tubing and everything. It's good to have around because I can use it to change the oil on my lawnmower, snow blower, etc.

TheMuffinMan

iTrader: (1)

Ok doe key.

I do the Transfer Case, Diff, and Tranny every 25k miles and knock them all out at once.

Reorge

I have a one man brake bleeder from Mityvac (same manufacturer, MV6835) that uses compressed air to create a vacuum to suck the brake fluid from the bleeder. It stopped working after one use. I had to take it apart and found one of the air fittings didn't have sealant on them and it leaked air (no vacuum). I put Teflon tape on the fitting and reassembled. It worked great after the repair. Per internet research this is a common problem with their brake bleeders. You might have the same issue with this unit which can be repaired as I've mentioned. The Mityvac bleeder is a well designed and manufactured unit except for the assembly flaw I found that rendered it unusable.

I did notice the video you linked DIDN'T show the fluid actually being pumped out. I'd want to see this before I purchase. I suspect, and only suspect, that you have to pump your arm off to drain a transmission.

Nevertheless, let us know how it works for you.