"But: transmission fluid flushes? Uh uh. Flushes have been known to break crap loose that eventually clog a fluid filter, and fry the tranny."
I disagree with your comment. A tranny should not have any crap in it. If there is, it is already to late for the tranny. Most people follow mfg. suggested intervals for tranny maintenance which is mostly too late IMO. You need to check your oil often to see any discoloration and smell. If it si dark and smell gas, it is time to change it regardless of your mileage. I find Chevy's 50K interval too late. I believe this should be 30K.
I also have 05 Ford Escape, which is the easiest vehicle to work on it and I do my own flushes. I ve 85K on it and I've done 3 flushes so far.
Well, you're certainly entitled to your opinion...
But, reality is reality. The flushes were done by shops, the trannys burned up on both cars within about 30 days, and that is that. Game over, and one person's opinion doesn't pay for another person's new transmission.
And a tranny for a RX300 is pricey, indeed. I don't think 65k was
that bad (I wouldn't do it, though) for the first fluid change. That one is in court.
I agree with you on the frequency of the transmission fluid changes. I used to change out some of my F150's fluid every 25k by disconnecting the output line, and let it drain a few quarts.
I have a question for you and the rest of the group:
Exactly how do you check the trans fluid on the 'bu? Anyone notice that there is no transmission fluid level stick?
Is there a service plug or port that can be accessed underneath during my next oil change?
