01 Town and country Transmission Flush

I want to do a complete tranny flush on my 01 T&C and just want to make sure I do it correctly (62k miles). There is a small leak at the tranny pan so I need to fix that and figured changing all the fluid would be good (since Jiffy Lube put something in it a couple years ago when they said it was low). How much ATF+4 should I get and any recommendations on how to flush it completely? Please advise

I am not sure how many quarts you need but I would not flush the transmission. Generally on low mileage transmissions it will not hurt but it can do major damage resulting in the transmission failing shortly after the flush is done. Usually 10K miles or so. Change the fluid and filter only and forget the flush as you really don't need it. You will be able to fix the leak in the transmission pan at that time.
One thing make sure you use the ATF+4 and nothing else in a Chrysler transmission.

I am not sure how many quarts you need but I would not flush the transmission. Generally on low mileage transmissions it will not hurt but it can do major damage resulting in the transmission failing shortly after the flush is done. Usually 10K miles or so. Change the fluid and filter only and forget the flush as you really don't need it. You will be able to fix the leak in the transmission pan at that time.
One thing make sure you use the ATF+4 and nothing else in a Chrysler transmission.


Thanks for the input.....your suggestions will also make my job easier too!

I dont understand why flushing the trans would harm it i work at a dealer for 30 years and brother in law also owns a sucessful trans shop for many years and we never encountered any problem flushing and never heard of any problems afterwards
only on this forum can someone elaborate this issue please

Well.....I changed out the gasket and filter yesterday and upon testing the system noticed a small leak just above the pan on a 4x6inch (est) rectangular piece with what appeared to be allen screws/bolts....can anyone tell me what that part is and how to fix the leak? also, does anyone have any experience with the after market 'stop leak' additives?

that is a solenoid pack and they do tend to leak and need to be replaced if they leak

ok...anybody want to walk me through how to replace the solenoid pack? still talking about an 01 Town and Country ...also...do I need to re-drain the pan and replace the gasket I just installed?:banghead:

Hold on! Stop! Don't you think you should take it to a shop where you can have a knowledgable set of eyes look at it before changing major transmission components on the word of all of us armchair mechanics living hundreds of miles away. Yes, a lot of guys have a lot of know how and experience on this forum but, I wouldn't consider everything said as gospel. Absolutely no offense meant 1thunder.

If you're insisting on doing it yourself and unless you're absolutely sure the pack is leaking, spray it off with a degreaser, wipe it down good, and drive it a couple days. Could the fluid you're seeing be residual from the pan gasket change?

BTW - I agree with 1thunder that flushing tranny fluid shouldn't be a problem. I saw it done on 2 other cars (not dodge) without creating any problems. However, experience speaks volumes so don't count out what the moderator said. It's just one of those calls you'll have to make.
If you're still interested, I read about a flushing procedure on Allpar.com specific to these vans. I've never tried it but, it made sense. Let us know how you made out

I know it is the solenoid leaking....is there a seal that could simply be replaced for the solenoid pack or would the whole thing need replaced? I already replaced the pan gasket and wiped it all down...I started the engine and watched for a few minutes under the van...as the engine warmed up...I saw the solenoid starting to leak...not bad but enough that I don't like it....the van operates fine so that is why I ask if I can seal the leak by either replacing a gasket or by some other means......If I were to take it to the shop...what could I expect to pay for the repairs?

I am not sure how many quarts you need but I would not flush the transmission. Generally on low mileage transmissions it will not hurt but it can do major damage resulting in the transmission failing shortly after the flush is done. Usually 10K miles or so. Change the fluid and filter only and forget the flush as you really don't need it. You will be able to fix the leak in the transmission pan at that time.
One thing make sure you use the ATF+4 and nothing else in a Chrysler transmission.

Had my 2000 GC flushed at a Chrysler dealer using a BG machine and materials at 85K. Now at 109K and probably going to do it again at the same place. No problems up to now.
Regards