I'm going to change the transmission fluid in my '05 2500 by disconnecting the return line. Have read the many descriptions and sounds easy enough.

There is a significant price difference in the Mopar ATF+4 from the local Dodge dealer and Valvoline or Castrol found at local parts stores. Other than Amsoil is anyone else using non-Mopar ATF+4?

Also, how much fluid can be removed from the system just emptying the pan?

 

Performing a fluid exchange via the return line is an effective method which works well. I use Valvoline ATF+4 my vehicles as well as the (Dodge Ram CTD) company vehicles that I am responsible for. I believe that Mopar ATF+4 may be available at WalMart stores. A stock pan would yield 6 quarts of fluid by removing the pan alone. Other than Amsoil, I believe that Redline markets their C+ ATF that satisfies the requirements of ATF+4 as per the data sheet. I have attached a link to the licensed atf+4 brands for your review.


http://www.centerforqa.com/licensedatf4brands.html

 

just run the ams oil youll be happy you did

 

The Valvoline ATF is more than adequate for the 48re. At the frequency that you should be changing the fluid, it's really a waste to bother with the Amsoil ATF, especially with the price they charge for it.

 

Any brand as long as it's ATF+4. The specifications are pretty tight, so there isn't really any difference on brand.
Think WalMart has the best price, less than $4 a qt.

 

Vavloline ATF here.

 

Why change the trans pan oil only which yields 6qts when the 48RE capacity is 14-16 qts?
I would like some advice on changing out ALL the trans oil if possible, someone mentioned utilizing the return line. Would that do it?

 

Yes! Performing the fluid exchange through the return line will replace all of the fluid.

 

Now, if I utilize the return line how long should I run the truck in neutral to empty most of the transmission fluid? Some one mentioned 1 minute...
Could this method cause damage?
I will be removing the pan and replacing the filter too.
Should I install a drain plug?
Thx again for the quick response!

 

I recommend you run it until the fluid no longer exits at a steady stream if you prefer this method. I have attached a link that illustrates a basic exchange procedure.

The instructions are generic and intended to cover all makes and models as there is no need for special tools. It is important that you remove the return line, not the feed line. While inspecting the transmission from the drivers side, the front line located on the side of the 48RE is the feed to the cooler. The return line is towards the back of the trans. Please see instruction number 13 in order to perform a proper fluid exchange. After that, I would drop the pan and replace the filter as well. Adding a drain plug is always a good idea.

http://www.amsoil.com/dealer/techser...Procedures.pdf

 

Pull the return line and run a hose from the line to a 5 gal bucket where you can see the flow. Pump out fluid until you see the flow starting to slow down - don't run it until it stops. This will allow you to drop the pan without having fluid pour out everywhere.

Drop the pan and change the filter (Add a drain plug while you have the pan off). Reinstall the pan and add 5 to 6 qts tranny fluid, about the same amount you pumped out. Start the truck back up and pump fluid / add fluid until you see clean fluid coming out the return line. You never run it dry, pump 4 qts, add 4 qts. After you have clean fluid coming out the return, button it up and check the level.

Some people say that all you need to do is drop the pan, and I agree for the most part. My fluid looked bad, and I wanted to change as much as I could so I pulled the return line. I could not believe how simple and easy it was using this method.