I have a 2004 FX4 (New style) Automatic. I noticed that the tranny pan does not have a drain plug. Anyone know of an aftermarket pan that does have a drain?

Also, I'm assuming there is a transmission fluid filter that can be accessed after dropping the pan...correct

 

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Yes there is a filter in there.

There are a few makers of aftermarket pans with drain plugs. But takes the fun out of spilling the fluid everywhere when you change it.

PML

Mag-Hytec

There may be others.

 

Yea, "The fun!". I just changed the fluid/filter in my brother's 1986 F-150. OH how fun. Fluid running down my arms to my shoulders.....fluid all over the floor. Why didn't Ford put in a drain plug? And why don't they have a remote filter? I worked on a Volvo a few years back, and it had an
'engine oil filter' type spin on transmission filter. I thought it was so cool.

 

I recently changed mine and disconnected the cooler lines and let the truck pump out the majority of the sump and then when I opened up the pan I didn't spill a drop, that's really good for me, there was some fluid there but not alot.

Followed this method:
Changing ATF Fluid in a E4OD and 4R100 transmission

Your transmission will be similar. But we don't have a TC drain.

 

I'm guessing that without the drain plug, you would have to drop the pan. Since you've dropped the pan, you may as well change the filter. If you simply were able to drain & refill it, you wouldn't change the filter.

With the right equipment, you will not make a mess. Look for an oil change pan that is large enough. Wear gloves w/ long sleeves; w/ the sleeves bloused into the gloves. Or better yet, get one of those siphons or pumps that suck the fluid out through the dipstick hole.

Aftermarket pans are available from Ford Racing Performance Parts, TCI, ACT Automatics, B&M Racing, Bowler Performance Transmissions, Mag-Hytec, & PML Inc. A quick "google" search will turn up all your options. Then it is up to you to weigh the pros & cons of each product. Just like with leveling kits, don't just pick one because it is the cheapest. They are not all the same. They are made from different metals, have different fill capacities, some come with the proper filter, some have magnetic drain plugs, et cetera.