Transmission-Related Questions

[Kevin Means]

I know I'm going to have to provide access to the transmission's mounting bolts once the habitat is installed, and I think I've figured out how to do that, but as I was looking at it, I was wondering how the transmission is removed. (God forbid) Can it be removed from underneath, or does the habitat have to be removed, so the transmission can be lifted out from the top?

Our M1083 only has about 1700 miles on it, and seems to be in very good shape considering it's 27 years old. I know the transmission was designed to use the same oil as the engine uses, but I've learned that these transmissions shift quite a bit smoother if ATF fluid is used. With such low miles, I thought I'd make the switch to ATF. What do you think? If you're using ATF, what brand are you using? Any issues? Thanks

Kevin

 

[Skyhawk13205]

The bed removal is not required to remove the transmission, if you can provide the same access as if the bed was installed it is possible. My friend had his transmission replaced at a service shop, and I think the hardest part for them was dropping it, I think the weight and balance was difficult for them. They ended up welding an adapter plate to balance it.

As for the oil, I run ATF, it help with my truck because of the temp range and reduced drain interval, per Allison service letter 10-TR-99 REV K running a non TES compliant fluid puts you in a yearly fluid and filter change interval, a TES compliant fluid allows for a 3 year filter and 4 year fluid change interval subject to oil analysis. For your oil considerations it is really a decision of drain intervals, temp requirements and comfort level.

I know many users here have changed over to ATF with no issues, there are some who claim it can cause them to fail and the transmission is not engineered for an ATF, one person reported a transfer case issue in the C7 clutch assembly, not shifting once changed over to ATF, he reported the oil piston seals broken and wear and rust in the assembly, suspected cause was poor lubercation.

 

[Ronmar]

It goes out thru the bottom. In one of the manuals there are specs for a lifting jig to do it with a crane(bed removed).

i am having to raise the floor of my hab in that area so am planning a removable floor section to allow access for possible future service…