Just curious, when you change the transmission filter, is there a trick to getting the seal/gasket out without damaging anything ?

('97 Blazer, automatic trans)

You have to replace the gasket. So don't worry about being tender with it.

I use a flat head screwdriver. Bend the seal so it implodes on itself and it will fall out.

did a buic once that did not want to come out, 97 blazerdude has it down pat, if it doesnt fall i had to use a pair of needle nose plyers, you wont hurt nothen your putten back on if you think b4 you act... btw the main seal on the tranny pan is cork, you cannot reuse it once tightend down

I used a tool meant for extracting cotter pins out of the castleated nuts on the front axle bearing hubs on 18 wheelers. It's a blunt tool with a curved, meaty hook on one end and a long handle that has a bar sticking out of the side. Since it's hook is blunt you have to work HARD to scratch the bore of the filter's seal with it. Fish it in through the center and rest the tip of the hook on the seal. Pat the metal bar sticking out of the handle lightly with a hammer. A few taps later, out comes the seal! Or, like the other fellows say, careful judgement with a screwdriver to collapse the metal ring of the seal with a gentle prying pressure, followed with a pair of needle nose pliers will get it done just as good. Have fun!

btw the main seal on the tranny pan is cork, you cannot reuse it once tightend down

They also sell a neoprene tranny pan seal - but you will have to save up for a while. It is cost you just over $5 instead of the $2.30 for the cork. It is worth it in my opinion. Cork is easier to find at the FLAPS though.

they do, but if its the first time its been done, it has cork on it from the factory

If it is the orange seal that is steel reinforced, inspect it carefully to see if there are any rips or tears in it. If it looks good DONT mess with it, just lube up the filter and install it. I have done at least 100 of these trans services and never had a problem. If you pry it out or beat it out, you run the chance of gouging the sid of the trans where the seal seals on and causing larger problems.

I pretty much agree with Kordog. If the old seal grabs the filter ok, just reuse it. Also, an Autozone filter kit has the cork gasket, the Advance kit has a stiff rubber type gasket, much better in my opinion. Cost a dollar more.