Tranny service

Hey my e38 is at 207k and im getting the torque converter shudder, every mechanic is telling me to leave my tranny alone, anybody changed there fluid and filter with similar mileage, and how did it turn out?

War Machine

Bump!!!!

War Machine

I drained and refilled mine at 191K for the same reason. Also put a tube of Dr Trannys in there and all has been well for the last 5K or so.

Be sure to use a Filtran filter, others can collapse leading to fluid starvation.

Did you do the job yourself? Cuz i dont think a mechanic wants to even touch war machine.

War Machine

Originally Posted by beemer1804

Did you do the job yourself? Cuz i dont think a mechanic wants to even touch war machine.

War Machine

Yes, I did. Worst part was trying to get the final fill done with the engine running and hot transmission fluid pouring down my arm as i'm trying to get the fill plug back in.

I'd also recommend replacing the transmission pan bolts as the bolt heads on mine seemed a bit soft...

I don't see why not a shop can't do it all they have to do is a waiver and disclaimer regarding the transmission service.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Bimmer App

How long did it take you and did you use a lift?

War Machine

Research methods of partial drain / partial fills- this seems to be the method least likely to cause the transmission to go into "shock", for lack of a better technical description. The filling temp is a narrow range- it's stamped on the bottom of the unit. ALWAYS check to ensure the fill port can be opened PRIOR to loosening drain port. I believe the plug is a 14mm hex. Hookup to DIS to check operating temp is within range, or best guess as "warm" by touch. Fill with a new garden sprayer. Be sure to have vehicle level. After a few partial drain / fills- I'd drop the pan and change the filter with FILTRAN oem ONLY- use new gasket.

Do more research, read more before jumping in-- this is not fun. Transmission fluid STINKS, its MESSY, and this task might or might not cure your problem- and can even make it worse-- but at this point, you have little to lose, right?

Good luck!