Help urgently needed. MOT is due & I intend to have the oil in the gearbox changed apart from an unhealthy colour it has been in for the 2yr I have had it do'nt know how long before that.Problem is thus garage tell me they will have to take the pan of to clean any sludge out & replace the filter,is this usuall practice or am I being railroaded into uneeded expense,if the filter is needed can any kind soul enlighten me as to part No. please. My towny is:-G reg[1992]2ltr turbo diesel 4wd automatic.As this is urgent if you can help please E/Mail me soonest thanks.

- (#13518) Steuart H, 28 Sep 04 05:13

It would be prudent to clear the sludge out of the pan....its not a long job at all though...the hiace had a mesh filter which didnt need renewing...don't know about your townie....shouldn't cost a lot as the fluid is cheap and its not a long or tricky job..especially under a ramp......

- (#13518) chris turner, 28 Sep 04 06:18

As Chris says, no great job. The filter is a VERY fine mesh type and should not need replacing, only a good, gentle clean with a suitable solvent. There are two magnetic particle collectors in the pan. They will need cleaning also. The whole job should take no more than two hours and is well within the scope of the enthusiastic owner. Draining will not take out all of the fluid because the torque convertor contents remain. However, a refill changes a good percentage of the fluid and, if you buy your ATF in bulk, there wil be enough left over to do another change in a month or two. Re-filling is done via the dipstick/filler tube. Why pay garage charges?

- (#13518) John Davis (Leics), 28 Sep 04 06:32