In my opinion, the 1st to 2nd shift has always been a little rough on all my aw-7x automatic transmissions (4). Especially at low speed.

I have heard of that story about kicking up so much gunk from a flush that you end up with trans problems afterwords. I think they were probably refering to a car that hasnt had the fluid changed in 200k. In my opinion doing a flush by the method described in the faq is no more harsh than draining / refilling. Quite a bit more simple though...

I use Mobil 1 and flush it every 25,000. Its only a $65 expense every 1-1/2 to 2 years.

I usually use the 30 minutes then check method... I think plus or minus 1/2qt. wont hurt things, but dont quote me on that.

If you look at the dipstick I think it actually has temperarures on it. The "cold" level is for fluid at 40°C which is about 100°F. And I think the hot level is for maybe 80°C... I'm just going by memory here, check to eb sure.

I cant see how the trans fluid can possibly get up to 100° by letting the car idle in park. Maybe this helps...


Matt