Myth, Mystery or Science?

Today's Transmission System- You'd Better Keep it Clean!
I’m sure you’ve noticed, as I have, that EVERYTHING today is higher-priced (from a pack of gum to a six-pack of Guinness) and more technically advanced than ever before. Technology has impacted our lives from the moment we fall out of bed to the wee hours when we reach for our electronic toothbrushes. This same reality is especially noticeable in our vehicles, and particularly with drive components like the automatic transmission. The automatic transmissions of today are electronically/computer controlled, ingeniously engineered, and incredibly sophisticated, compared to the hydraulically controlled pre-historic models of “the old days.” What does this mean for the vehicle owner? It means much more expense should that transmission have problems.

The cure for this is a no-brainer: Keep the transmission clean and properly maintained for extended service life. The best way to do this is to follow the manufacturer’s suggested service intervals and flush the transmission system as recommended, using a first-rate flush chemistry system.

Like motor oil, transmission fluid contains additives to control viscosity, oxidation, corrosion, and foaming. And just as in the engine crankcase, deposits form in the automatic transmission housing when these additives get used up under typical driving conditions. Heat is the killer – the mortal enemy of transmission fluid. It causes the additives to get used up more quickly, and causes gum and varnish deposits to build. These deposits stick to valves in the valve body and on clutch plate assemblies. The valve may move sluggishly or become stuck resulting in improper operation. Clutch assemblies may slip or grab, creating shift performance problems. Both of these problems wear a transmission down.

Understanding “Detergency”
A very important characteristic of transmission fluid is its detergency. It helps control the build-up of sludge and varnish deposits. But if this protective detergent is used up over time, the transmission fluid can no longer keep the system free of these contaminants. By flushing the transmission system with a flush chemistry, these contaminants are removed along with any wear metals that may be present. Once the system is clean and free from these harsh deposits and damaging debris, the new transmission fluid can do its job with ease, by keeping the valves and governors free, protecting and coating the gears and pumps, preventing overheating and oxidation. But the key is to monitor the process and flush the system again when the vehicle reaches the recommended mileage interval.

Routine scheduled maintenance of the transmission system is a vital service for your customers’ vehicles. By using chemical transmission flush additives coupled with the evacuation of the old, used-up transmission fluid, you can significantly extend the life expectancy of your customers’ transmissions, fulfilling their trust in you as their expert in preventive maintenance.