Dealer can't do tranny flush....

FLfinfan · 08-02-2004, 04:40 PM

Called Sat. about getting a tranny flush done (long trip recently completed). Dealer said Mon 1pm. Specifically asked him if they have the equipment to do it on a Titan. Yes he said. And the price (119.00) includes the "J" matic fluid? Yes he said.
Went today. Sat in waiting room 30 min. Guy comes in and says they can't do a flush because they only have one flush machine and it has been running "D" matic fluid. The said they can't inter-mingle the two fluids. I asked him where does that leave me? He said they were scratching their heads about what to do. Not a confidence builder. I asked if they had drained ANY tranny fluid or cracked open the plug. He said no. At least they didn't screw anything up.
It's good they didn't just say they did it and charge me anyways. I made sure to tell them when I gave them the key that I had done a motor oil change and differential fluid change the day before and that I had left the skid plates off and would be putting them back on after they were done (didn't say it was to ensure no bozo snapped off the bolts, cross threaded them or left a few off). I think I made them realize I would be under there checking their work and they didn't try to lie. Maybe...maybe not.
Anyways this is the stupidest thing I ever heard. We will sell you the truck but we can't do the service on it.

ChrisCakes · 08-02-2004, 05:22 PM

Went to dealer in KC to have all fluids replaced today (front & rear diff, transfer case, engine oil and tranny)... Got them to give me samples to send in for oil analysis... Couldn't flush the tranny for the same reason. Guess I am the one with the most mileage in the area since they haven't had to flush another TITAN/ARMADA before... Didn't have a clue if/when they were going to get another machine for the different fluid???

I do a lot of hauling and towing, so I thought it would be good to get everything done at 12,000 miles (only 4 months old...) just to see where things were at and where they might be headed (diff replaced, etc...)

Will check back at 15,000 miles (next month) when I go back for my next regular service...

bestatchess · 08-02-2004, 09:19 PM

Look at the instructions for changing the ATF and flushing the transmission cooler in the service manual at MA-23. It does not appear to require any special machine or equipment, beyond a drain pan and a funnel.

Step 1: Drain the ATF from the drain plug on the tranny.

Step 2: Put the drain plug back and refill with the same volume of ATF that was drained.

Step 3: With the engine running, drain ATF from the tranny cooler return line, while adding ATF in the charging pipe (the normal fill opening with the level gage)

Step 4: When the ATF draining from the tranny cooler return line looks like new, clean ATF, flushing is complete.

Step 5: Fill ATF to proper level.

I think the lines from the ATF cooler might have crimp type hose clamps that might need to be replaced with the stainless steel screw operated type of hose clamps. It might be nice to have somebody else around so one person could add ATF while the other watches for the color of the ATF coming out of the tranny cooler.

My dealer changed my ATF without problem or complaint.

SarkaZm · 08-02-2004, 09:24 PM

Just dissconnect one of the transmission cooler lines and drive around for a while, that will get all the fluid out, at least that is what worked for me...although I did not intend to flush the tranny at 77 miles

But seriously that is a crock that they cannot flush it for you...did they have any suggestions besides scratching their heads? Seems how you have to use their specific fluid or you void the warranty, they should be able to do something...It's a long shot, but I'd call 1-800-nissan and see what they suggest.

bestatchess · 08-02-2004, 10:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SarkaZm

Just dissconnect one of the transmission cooler lines and drive around for a while, that will get all the fluid out, at least that is what worked for me

Ahh yes, I remember. Makes me want to make a midnight run to Wal-Mart for some hose clamps.

FLfinfan · 08-03-2004, 10:27 AM

I asked if they could just drain and refill and they said no. I don't wanna mess with it myself and risk having the dealer say it's my fault. I only have 5,100 miles on it now so I will wait. I was just changing out everything:
Oil,
Rear diff fluid,
filters (oil and air),
rotating tires
etc....
Thought I would get it all done before I go back to work (2 jobs) and don't have any time. Oh well, best laid plans......

donmecca · 08-03-2004, 11:05 AM

Nice beach photos Flfinfan, what dealership told you this? I live in Ft. Lauderdale but bought my Titan in Miami at Maroone on 8th street. I posted a reply message regarding another Titan using their service dept. Sounds like they need some training from Lexus. Go fins, I will miss little Ricky this year but Travis will step up if they get a decent front line. Wish Dixon did not fall apart, its been downhill since.

FLfinfan · 08-03-2004, 05:51 PM

Reluctant to say name of dealer. Lets just say Brevard County. I think that narrows it down to 3, maybe 4 dealers.
I will be quietly optimistic of the Fins fortunes this year. At least all the talking heads are not saying,"the fins could go all the way this year" and then they gag. I like the underdog roll for a change.
One thing for sure is that our fumbles will be cut in half, at least, (Ricky was the 2nd leading fumbler in the NFL the last 2 or 3 years). Travis Minor is no slouch, he is the 3rd leading rusher in FSU history. Warric Dunn did ok at Tampa Bay when he was there and Travis looks like him (only thicker) and runs alot like him.
Word on the o-line!