2003 Z71 Transmission Filter Replacement Beware

[crillis]

2003 1/2 ton Sierra Z71 4WD 5.3L

 

To start with, I have read several posts on replacing the tranny filter before I decided to do it myself. Afer following all the advice here I ran into a problem I did not see mentioned. There is not enough clearance to get the tranny pan off without dropping the exhaust!

 

This was my experience. The drain plug everyone complains about is valid. The bolt was in very tight. I followed another posters recommendation and put a propane torch to is for about 15 seconds to help ease the release of the the thread lock sealant put on at the factory. I believe this was a very useful tip. I also went to sears and bought a 15mm 6 point impact socket (thanks again to another poster!). The impact socket they carry at sears is 1/2" drive and less than $10. After I heated the bolt I put the socket with a breaker bar on it and it came loose without stripping the bolt head. Just for the record, this bolt seems to be an odd size between a 14 and 15mm. I did put a 15mm 12pt socket on it and it felt like a loose fit. The dealer may have a special tool? I then removed all the pan bolts. There is one in the corner under the shift linkage that was a bear but you can just pry the bracket off to the side 1/8" and get to it. Once all the bolt were out I tapped the pan and it dropped right down about 2", right down onto my exhaust! My factory exhust has a bend that runs directly across the pan. I tried to manipulate the pan in several directions but it was a no-go situation. I think the pan was hitting on the lowest hanging object, the filter.

 

I decided it was best to put the pan back up (using old gasket) and re-tighten the screws. I will take the truck to the dealer to have the filter changed.

 

Just thought I would share my experience and save someone the hassle that I had.

 

CW

[peggin]

tried to change mine in my 04 4.8 2wd and it was a nightmare. nothing like it used to be. last truck i had was an 89 and seems like routine maintence was something that would only take an hour here and there. if you go into these "newer" trucks with that attitude, you will be in for a real suprise.

(wished i would have just taken it to the dealer)

[VintageHD]

Changed mine in my 2000 silverado last Satyrday....had the same problem with exhaust, and all I did was bend the linkage bracket out of the way and the pan dropped out....then just lightly tapped it back into place withg the new filter and gasket....If I did not have a pit to work in it would have been a bear...thanks to my bud Clyde and his old recycled garage..........PHD.

[ewiski]

You can loosen the bolt for the transmission mount and jack it up a few inches for more clearance and it will come off easier.

[C & A s Dad]

You can loosen the bolt for the transmission mount and jack it up a few inches for more clearance and it will come off easier.

 

 

+1 Mine cleared without a problem but I have read where it is much easier to loosen the rear mount bolts and use a floor jack and a piece of 2 x 4 to lift up the rear of the trans. This will give you enough clearance to get the pan off without removing the exhaust.