The transmission system needs to be well-lubricated to keep all the moving parts in shape. The transmission is lubricated with the transmission fluid. The fluid should always be clean so it can do its function properly. There comes the transmission fluid, which keeps the dirt and debris out of the fluid.
But how often should you change the Allison transmission filter? The change interval is 75,000 miles for regular-duty use, while for heavy-duty, it is 25,000. Installing a new filter will keep the transmission working properly. Also, the work life of the transmission is prolonged.
Stay with us, and you will learn everything about these filters. You will know why they are important, what are the signs of a worn filter, and how to replace them.
What is an Allison Transmission Filter?
The Allison transmission filter is an external spin-off filter. It is located on the driver’s side of the transmission. It is placed in a container that is filled with tranny fluid. On top of the filter is a magnet. When installing the filter, first, the magnet is placed. Then the filter is screwed from the bottom of the magnet.
Types of Filters Used in Allison Transmissions
There are internal and external filters. The external filter is a spin-off filter. It is located on the driver’s side of the transmission, and they are easy to access and replace with a new one. An internal filter is located in the transmission pan.
Importance of Having a Clean Filter
A clean filter will keep the particles and rust out of the transmission oil. You don’t want dirt circulating through the system. It will cause malfunction and severe problems for your transmission. That is why it has to be changed regularly.
Signs That Your Allison Transmission Filter Needs to Be Changed
If you don’t know when you installed the filter the last time, there are some symptoms to look out for. When the filter’s life comes to an end, some or all of these problems can come to bug you.
Strange Noises Coming From the Transmission
Usually, it is a rattling sound that is connected to the problems with Allison spin filter problems. Check the filter and tighten it. That may solve the problem for now. If not, it is time to replace the filter altogether.
Difficulty in Shifting Gears
If you notice problems when shifting gears, that can be a sign of a problem with a filter or even trans fluid. In most cases, you will hear the grinding sound at gear change. If the car is not shifting gears at all, the problem has already existed. Don’t waste your time; inspect this problem as soon as possible.
Transmission Fluid Appears Dirty or Has a Burnt Smell
The trans fluid should be clean and red and not smell burnt. If the tranny fluid is dirty and smells of burnt oil, then you need to flush the transmission system.
Check Engine Light is On
Check engine lights can come on for various reasons. One of them is a problem with the transmission. You can diagnose the problem with the help of an OBD II scanner that will list out all the code errors.
How Often Should You Change Your Allison Transmission Filter?
GM doesn’t have a particular recommended changing interval for Allison filters. They recommend regularly checking on the truck’s oil monitor. It monitors the quality of the filter and oil and will recommend when the filter change will come up.
As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to change the filter every 75,000 miles for regular users.
Factors that Affect How Often You Should Change Your Filter
Of course, if the truck is used for heavy-duty operations, then the filter and fluid change should come sooner. It would be good to change them every 25,000 miles.
How to Change an Allison Transmission Filter
Changing the Allison spin-on filter is an easy part of the process. That is an external filter that is easy to change.
- Lift the car using a jack
- Look for a filter on the driver’s side of the transmission
- Unscrew the filter a bit and let the oil come out
- Remove the filter completely, and don’t forget to take the magnet out
The next part of the process is removing the internal filter.
- Pull out the oil dipstick
- Unscrew the drain plug and let the oil drain
- Unscrew the transmission oil pan
- Pull out the filter by hand
- Let the oil come out completely
- Check the drain hole for the orange O ring. If the ring is inside, remove it
- Clean the magnet inside the oil pan
- Clean the pan and the gasket
- Clean the rest of the elements that are covered by the pan
- Lubricate the new O ring with oil
- Plug in the new filter in place
- Secure the oil pan with screws
- Secure the drain plug
- Check the specifications on how much oil you should add. It is usually around two gallons.
Check Out How To Change Allison 1000 Transmission External Spin On Filter:
Benefits of Changing Your Allison Transmission Filter Regularly
All regular maintenance will keep your truck working better for a longer time. The Allison transmission filter is no different. If you feel a problem with the filter, inspect it and change it if needed.
If you let your Allison filter wear out, it will cause bad fuel economy and problems with the transmission. Also, the price of the repair will grow over time.
Improved Fuel Economy
If the transmission is working as it should, it will improve fuel economy. If the car is in the right gear, it will consume less fuel.
Better Transmission Performance
Regular filter changes will guarantee better overall transmission performance. Switching gears will be easier, and the system will run smoothly.
Extended Lifespan of the Transmission
If the filter is new and clean, then the dirt and metal shavings will not come into the fuel system. That will extend the lifespan of the whole transmission and all of its components.
Reduced Risk of Costly Repairs
If you don’t pay attention to the symptoms of faulty transmission, problems will arise. In the beginning, there may be problems with shifting gears, but you may end up with a non-working transmission.
The transmission is one of the most expensive systems in the car. You want to maintain it properly.
How Often to Change Allison Transmission Filter: FAQs
What is Allison’s Transmission Capacity?
Allison 3,000 can hold 29 quarts of fluid. Larger, the Allison 4,000 can hold around 48 quarts. Some of the fluid is in the transmission pan, and the rest is in the transmission cooler, torque converter, and cooler lines.
How Often Should I Change My Duramax Transmission Fluid?
It is recommended to change the transmission fluid every 25,000 miles.
What Store Sells Allison Transmission Filters?
You can get it over on Amazon and in stores like Xcalliber.
Final Considerations
The transmission on your truck can be under an extra strain. That is why regular maintenance will help you forget all about it. For regular drivers, the interval can be between 50,000 and 75,000 miles. Heavy-duty truckers will have to think about it every 25,000 miles.
Always be on the lookout for any symptoms connected with the transmission. Inspect the filter if you hear a strange noise or the transmission is having problems. Installing the new filter is less of a headache than having to invest several hundred dollars into the transmission repair.
