I own a 2001 4.2L V6 truck and have 63K miles on it, never change the transmission filter or oil. I am thinking of doing an oil change with a transmission flush.
How can you tell if its a 4R100 OR 4R70W?
What is the diff in MERCON V and just MERCON oil?

 

The 4.2 only came with a 4R70W. Use only Mercon V - you can't buy straight Mercon any more.

 

What's the difference other than cost between the aftermarket filter and a dealer. I know i can get a transmission aftermaket filter for maybe $15.

 

What brand?

 

There's is a very popular brand here "Duralast"

 

I would not use a Duralast tranny filter - that's Autozone's house brand. Go over to NAPA and get a Wix.

 

Thanks, for the info.
I found a supplier that sells this WIX filter for $22.

 

i did the change the filter and new gasket but notice there was a small leak coming from the tranny dipstick. I checked and is not overfill so my question is how do i replaced the dipstick?
Can i just replace the o-ring?

 

Should be a O-ring...bigger trick is unbolting the dip stick tube ...thinking that is attached to the exhaust manifold. Your lower miles are in your favor.

Also watch/inspect the tube carefully after you get it out...some have been known to rust out nearest to the exaust...not saying that is the case, just watch for it.

 

The tube may leak a bit if you get the level too high when filling the trans. The level goes back down when you run the pump and fill the converter. My truck leaked when i changed the fluid but I cleaned it up and it hasn't leaked since.

 

Thank, I drove for a few miles and looked at the tranny dipstick and is not leaking anymore.

 

The original gasket does not need replacement. If you used the gasket in the filter kit you probably made a mistake. The 2001 may have the torque converter drain plug. If so, you can drain all the fluid yourself without having to go to a shop.

 

i hear that a flush can start the trans (since it wasnt flushed regularly) to slip. i had my fluid just changed and pan cleaned(new filter of course) and it runs great

 

There is a difference between a flush and a fluid exchange with a machine. I would never allow flush chemicals to touch a transmission.