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absolutezero273c · 2005-07-08T18:36:33-06:00

I posted this same question on thedieselstop and would like your opinions here as well: I would like to ask for some guidance from the list here as there seems to be a great amount of experience and knowledge located here. I am planning a long trip in a few days, towing a 29 ft travel trailer through the mountains from the midwest to the carolina coast. My tow vehicle is a 2001 PSD 4x2 Ford Excursion. I purchased it in Feb. of this year so I don't really know the maintenance history. It now has 99,600 miles on it and I am concerned about the transmission on this trip. It is now showing any signs of wear or slipping and would like to keep it this way. This is why I would like to perform some preventative maintenance. Since I don't know when the last time the tranny fluid was changed I was thinking about changing it before the trip (trans and TC) and replacing it with Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. I've been doing some reading and see that the Mobil 1 is able to withstand higher temps before breaking down, and overall a better lubricant. My concern is this: If I change the trans fluid to synthetic, and don't know the previous maint history, am I right in being concerned about the new fluid working old sludge and deposits loose, and ruining my transmission en route? Same question regarding the rear end fluid. If I change the rear end fluid and replace it with a synthetic (assuming the factory fluid is not synthetic) am I asking for trouble to start while on the trip? Lastly, if anyone has driven this route before (taking I-77) is it that much of a worry for a diesel excursion? If I had more time I would upgrade the trans cooler and install trans and pyro gauges, but I won't have time to do this before we leave. Thanks in advance for any help. Dana

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Ford Excursion Forums > Ford Excursion V8, V10, and Powerstroke > Excursion Discussion

drivetrain prep for long tow

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absolutezero273c

• Toledo, OH, USA

• Registered on 4/9/2004

• 81 posts

• 1

Posted:7/15/2005 06:27

I checked the trans fluid and it is not burned and the fluid is within the fill marks on the dipstick. For that reason, and the fact that I couldn't get time to do it before the trip, I'm going to leave the tranny flush/filter for when we return.

When I return it will be a tranny flush, and trans temp gauge. The one I have goes up to 250 degrees F. That should be sufficient to warn me my trans is too hot, yes? I have seen some that go to 400 is the reason I'm asking.

Thanks to all!

2001 Excursion XLT 7.3L 2x4 145K

2001 Flagstaff 829-BHS

Ford Excursion Forums > Ford Excursion V8, V10, and Powerstroke > Excursion Discussion

drivetrain prep for long tow

Thread Statistics: Users to Post: 6 | Total Posts: 11 | Total Views: 1218

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Pages: 1 2