I'm in the process of changing all the fluids on my truck and seems the trans filter does not want to stay in the hole by itself. Am I right in thinking the pan holds it in place?

I'll stay as long as nothing touches it but once I try to put the pan on it falls. I haven't ever had an automatic long enough to change the fluid - noobie here!!!


EDIT: What is the torque spec for the pan bolts? I'm finding from 8-18ft lbs.

Thanks!

 

Yea, the pan holds the filter in place. These filters are a PITA to get to stay in place until you get the pan up there. What i have done in the past, get your gasket in place on the pan, get the pan in place, install filter, then set pan in place and start some bolts.

 

What do you use to get the bolts behind the exhaust out? I drained mine pan with a mighty vac and then struggled with those bolts until I said screw it. Just replaced fluid and decided to get the filter in an oil change or 2 when I replace another 6-7 qts. It gives me flash backs of my Silverado where I fought for a day before I did basically the same. Truck has had 7qts when roll pin was changed at 20k and now 6-7 more at 40k.

What in the world are you guys using to get to those bolts?

 

I use a swivel socket to get those bolts

 

I guess I should've tried a 3/8 swivel. I'll get it next time. I've got 7 more quarts on hand to use.

Appreciate the help

 

I used a 1/4 drive swivel extension.

 

No the pan most certainly does NOT hold the filter in place. Did you leave the old filters rubber o-ring inside the valve body when you removed it? They have a tendency to stick up in there and cause your issue. Very carefully remove that ring without scratching the sealing surface then with the new ring on the new filter, lubricate it and push it in place, you may have to bump it with the ball of of your fist to get it to seat, then put the pan on.

Pan bolts should be 106 lb-in.
.