Transmission Question

[RJEV]

We have an Allegro 08, 32ft, class A, Ford, with approx. 7500 miles. We last used it in Oct 09 putting about 2200 miles on it. When we returned we had the oil changed, all fluids checked and put it up until a few days ago when we took it out for an 80 mile trip. In checking the transmission fluid I noticed a little grit on the dip stick. It didn't feel like metal, more like sludge, although there were some pieces that were clearly noticeable. I repeated the process 10 or so times and got hardly any particles on the dip stick. My question is: Since the MH set up for a couple of months could this be just some deposit that settled and was churned up during the 80 mile trip or is this an indicator of a bigger potential problem? Everything ran fine during the short trip.

Thanks,
RJ

[LVJ58]

Hard to say, could be some residue from the manufacture and assembly of the transmission or it could be an indicator of a problem.

If it's still under warranty I would put a sample of the fluid with the contaminants in a small container and take it to a Ford service facility and have it checked by one of their transmission service techs.

Additionally, if it were my coach I would have the transmission fluid & filter changed even though it only has 7,500 miles.

Good luck and let us know your findings,

[TXiceman]

I would have Ford drop the pan and check the filter and magnet and do a complet fluid change if nothing is found. We had an Explorer that I decided to have the dealer change the tranny fluid and when he dropped the pan, lots of gunk in the pan and we got a tranny rebuild at 9000 miles.

Ken

[RJEV]

Thanks. I plan on taking it in Monday.

RJ

[RJEV]

FYI. I took a transmission fluid sample to the Ford dealer today and spoke with the service manager of the transmission shop. He said he had seen it before and it took about a year before they knew what was happening. Said it was condensation on the dipstick which caused the "crud" and not to worry. I tend to think he is correct since I checked this morning before going to the dealer and saw nothing on the end of the dip stick but did get some residue off the dip stick as I wiped it. I feel good about it since they could have easily suggested a trans. flush and filter change but I think gave an honest opinion and saved me some money. I'll keep a close eye on it but hopefully it's not going to be a problem.

RJ

[LVJ58]

Thanks for the feedback RJ

[RoadRohrers]

A little late to the party. I had the same experience with quite a few miles. Forgot to worry about it and next time I checked, everything was fine. So took it off my list of things to worry about again.

[RJEV]

Thanks Richard. Good to know,

RJ