Transmission Experts Weigh In - Page 2

andrewwynn · #1 06-05-2020, 06:38 PM

I had thought that the super high mileage srmmm did the filter swap but it wasn't him. He's at like 360,000 miles on original filter and fluid!!!

Overboost · #2 06-05-2020, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

I had thought that the super high mileage srmmm did the filter swap but it wasn't him. He's at like 360,000 miles on original filter and fluid!!!

Yeah, Steve is a really nice guy. He actually came out and watched us race at COTA last year and I saw his X close up. That kind of mileage on his nice X5 gives me hope I can make it to 300,000 miles in my X5

andrewwynn · #3 06-05-2020, 08:54 PM

I like the idea of using the transmission line for a complete exchange it going that route. I'll be making that call in the next half year.

80stech · #4 06-05-2020, 10:35 PM

I would say replace the selector shaft seal if you haven't done that already I think there is some really good info posted. Make sure you get a reasonably good quality filter so neck fits properly and doesn't break off, make sure you don't leave the old seal ring sticking up there, try to get the metal clad pan gasket, refill with Valvoline maxlife or dex VI with maybe 1/2 can of conditioner and don't worry about not getting all of the oil changed or putting the old oil back in. That's my 2 cents and what I did on both of mine at about 200,000K.

Overboost · #5 06-05-2020, 10:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 80stech

I would say replace the selector shaft seal if you haven't done that already I think there is some really good info posted. Make sure you get a reasonably good quality filter so neck fits properly and doesn't break off, make sure you don't leave the old seal ring sticking up there, try to get the metal clad pan gasket, refill with Valvoline maxlife or dex VI with maybe 1/2 can of conditioner and don't worry about not getting all of the oil changed or putting the old oil back in. That's my 2 cents and what I did on both of mine at about 200,000K.

I replaced the selector shaft seal this past week and bought the Genuine BMW GM 5L40-E transmission service kit that includes the gasket, filter and bolts. I am just trying to make a decision on the best fluid to use.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...it-24117557069

80stech · #6 06-05-2020, 11:09 PM

Awesome, you're way ahead!

I used the Valvoline Maxlife on mine and the dexron VI with a 1/2 can of conditioner on my wife's and both have been good. I seem to remember there is/was either a change with the maxlife and/or there are 2 different types which put my OCD into overdrive for a bit but I don't think it should be an issue.

Overboost · #7 06-05-2020, 11:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 80stech

Awesome, you're way ahead!

I used the Valvoline Maxlife on mine and the dexron VI with a 1/2 can of conditioner on my wife's and both have been good. I seem to remember there is/was either a change with the maxlife and/or there are 2 different types which put my OCD into overdrive for a bit but I don't think it should be an issue.

I think it was a packaging change and is called Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF.

80stech · #8 06-05-2020, 11:28 PM

Yes, I think they changed the spec as well but not the oil for that part, but I also seem to remember the first maxlife was a blend and not fully synthetic. Either way you should be good!

Don't give yourself a headache like I did! haha

Overboost · #9 06-06-2020, 06:59 PM

Decided on the Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF and took advice from Andrew on saving the original fluid just in case it is loaded with friction material. I bought a fresh drain pan/container and will hold onto it for a few weeks just in case.

I also got a decent fluid transfer pump that should move a couple of gallons easily. Just waiting on my FCP Euro order of Genuine BMW filter and pan gasket as it is showing delivery tomorrow. Might be busy tomorrow,

Scott ZHP · #10 06-06-2020, 09:49 PM

Mine has 170k on it; I've changed the filter and fluid twice, once at about 95k and again at about 165k. Be 100% sure you remove the filter neck seal from the transmission. It sometimes stays behind when you pull the filter down.

I've been using Valvoline Maxlife multi-vehicle, with zero issues. Still shifts like the day I bought it (I bought it new in 01). First fluid change, I got about 4 quarts out. After a week or so, I drained that and refilled again. Same thing on the second change.

I also replaced the trans cooler/heat exchanger at 165k, along with the trans thermostat/expansion tank/radiator/cap.