Forum Discussion

Fla904's avatar
Fla904
Explorer
Nov 21, 2015

changing engine and tranny fluids?

Picking my RV up day before thanksgiving and I am wondering If I should change all the fluids? I planned on changing the oil but have heard mixed answers on changing the transmission fluid.. Some say I dont need to and some say I do need to.. Its a 98 ford shasta with the v-10 has 58k miles on it. So should I change the tranny fluid, coolant, oil etc etc? or just the oil and Ill be good?

15 Replies

  • What ever you decide it's been my experience to NEVER allow the repair shop to FLUSH anything. "Just drain and replace fluids".

    I've had them ruin a radiator, break ac line, etc.

    The push to flush is just to add more money to your bill. And in any older vehicle it's an accident waiting to happen. And more bucks for them to repair. Just saying.

    I would "highly" recommend that you change the front brake lines though.

    The brake lines will look perfect on the outside but what happens is the inside degrades. Been there done that flying off an exit ramp MH towing and NO brakes. Common problem with the V-10 chassie. Repair shop knew exactly what the problem was. Brake line looked fine no leaks but the inside was completely shot. No fluid coming thru no brakes for me.:(
  • I purchased a 93 Toyota RV with no service records. I have changed every fluid,filter, belt and hose on it.

    Brake and tranny fluid are hygroscopic meaning they absorb moisture, moister is not a good thing in these systems. The additives in coolant break down over time, not a good thing.

    I missed the fuel filter and then read a post on someone with a used RV that got stuck because of a plugged fuel filter, so next on my list!

    Learn to read the date code on your tires, tires over 7 years old are unsafe!

    HTH Jim
  • Do you have any previous maintenance records?

    If not, it's probably best to assume that the fluids need changing. (Don't forget to also include flushing the brakes and changing the brake fluid!) You could get the advice of a trusted mechanic on the work needed.

    Also check the date codes on the tires and inspect/replace them as appropriate. Most motorhomes require new tires due to aging long before the tread becomes too worn down.
  • It's a 1998 vintage RV with only 58K miles on it so it has been sitting stationary more than moving.

    Change ALL the fluids.....engine oil/filter, tranny serviced (fluid/filter/adjustmnets), rear differential, BRAKE fluid (flushed thru brake lines/changed) and coolant.

    Also check the DOT year date on those tires......new tires if more than 5 yrs. old which I bet they are.