Thank you sir! Out of the 4-5 top YT videos - only one person mentioned the size of the bolt (the 15/16) of the fill hole. IDK why, but my FJ does not look like everyone else's in the video. I didn't even mean to give myself all this extra work. One YT video guy made me drain the tranny instead of the engine oil. I am past all of that tho. I am glad folks like yourself were here to help me with the process of getting my FJ back on the road. Thanks OP!
I did a transmission change on my 2007 FJ about one year ago. All I did was let the FJ and the fluid stay in the garage over night so they would be the same temperature. Then I drained the fluid into a bowl that had measurements on the side. I put the drain plug back in after it drained. I let it drain for about an hour just to get as much out as I could. Then I put that exact amount back in. They sell those cheap hand pumps that fit on the quart containers and have a hose on them. The fill plug is on the side. Please wear gloves when loosening and tightening. The transmission pan, where it connects to the transmission, is like a razor. The ratchet slipped and I cut my knuckle bad. When you pump it in the pump leaves about 2 ounces in the quart container so take that into con sideration. You need to get it as close to the amount you drained out as possible. I did the transmission change because my transmission developed a shudder at about 180,000 miles. The change immediately cured that problem and the shifts were more concise as well. I've put 13,000 miles on it since then and am super pleased with the results. I mentioned I was going to do this to the Toyota tech and the dealer. He said to make sure all your temps were right. I told him I was just going let it set overnight where everything would be the same temp and he said "Oh yeah, you can do that." Lol. So I didn't use any kind of temperature sensor. The reason these transmissions are particular about how much you put in is because of the fluid. The WS fluid expands when heated more then other fluids so every ounce is multiplied. Anyway, this is the way I did it and my transmission has performed excellent since then.
@@JB-lc2fn I don't remember exactly but it was roughly the same as yours. You're really just freshening the fluid up. I'm at 201,000 miles and my transmission is still doing great with no shudder. I'm planning on doing it again in about 5000 miles because that will be roughly 25000 miles since I did it and I'd like to not wait till I start having a shudder again. I will look at the bowl I drained it into and see if I can tell exactly how much I got out of it tomorrow. If I can tell I'll let you know.
Good add on details. After 20 years changing oil in my vehicles I mistakenly drained transmission pan vs oil pan. Didn’t realize this until I’d discarded the fluid. That’s why I wasn’t sure how much came out and how much to put back in. This is why I wanted to really pay attention to the purge plug process after refilling. 😅
I completed the automatic transmission oil change on my 2007 FJ Cruiser. I fallowed the instructions per the service manual which included draining the oil, removing the transmission oil pan and the filter inside. After completing that job, I cleaned the area, cleaned the oil pan and proceeded to reinstall everything back. I installed and torqued a new transmission filter, installed a new oil pan seal, installed the oil pan and torqued all the bolts per the recommended torque value. I installed the overflow bolt with new crush washer and the drain bolt with a new crush washer as well. Before I started to fill the transmission I decided to torque the drain bolt since I figured I didn’t have to use it again. The service manual calls for the transmission drain bolt to be torqued at 21 ft lbs. That damaged the bolt and in turn damaged my oil pan. I ended up buying a new oil pan, oil pan seal, drain bolt and crush washer. After additional research I came across another person that had gone thru the same problem. I also own a 4Runner and the torque values for the 4Runner were the same as the FJ Cruiser except the transmission drain bolt was torqued at 15 ft lbs and that’s what I used for the drain bolt on my FJ transmission drain bolt. In my opinion there is a typo there and that cost me.
Thanks for the heads up, I'll use the new torque values the next time I replace the fluid and install an aftermarket, oversized, aluminum finned transmission oil pan since I tow with my FJ.
?... at around 15:00 mark, he says it takes a little more than 4 quarts if not taking off drain pan. But then recommends and shows 4 quarts of ATF, not 5. So guessing he meant to say a little more than 3 quarts, which would mean getting 4 quarts.
Good video, but just an FYI, the WS fluid gets discolored overtime which is normal, but doesn't hurt to do a drain and fill every couple years or so! The fluid coming out of your trans didn't look too bad, now the crap I pulled from the 190K FJ I bought was another story!
That must have been a mess, I just don't like to wait too long for fluids to go bad and start wearing on the mechanisms. It's easy and not expensive so I just like to stay ahead of things. Thanks for the comments!
Thank you this is by far the best video I have seen all the other ones are trash compared to yours I was so lost watching all the other ones I’ve watched and looking at all of those forums that you spoke about on your video but now after I watched your video I’m confident I can easily do this myself and will be doing it tomorrow. Thank you.
Thanks Amber, I always tell everyone, "Hell if I can do it, anyone can do it!" Just take your time and you'll be a pro at it in no time. Thanks for the great comment/
Thank you for the video but you never mentioned the torque values for the drain bolt, overflow bolt and the fill bolt. FYI, my 2007 FJ Cruiser is not a 4 wheel drive model and the transmission has the fill bolt towards the end of the transmission near the driveshaft. Could you please provide the torque values? Unfortunately there is a lot of confusion regarding this, the torque value changes depending on which video you watch.
I had looked online for torque values and used those. Thank goodness for the internet. Plus, I can't remember if the torque values were in the owners manual under the maintenance section or not. The overflow bolt is an allen wrench type and it is made of extremely soft metal and easy to strip out so since this video. I looked online and have purchased some of the same so I can swap it out the next time I change the fluid.
@@tanktankerson1042 I see that you also have a Haley. I have the original owner"s manual and the only information it has regarding the automatic transmission is the amount of fluid to do a "drain and refill", according to my owner's manual it is 3.2 qts. My owner's manual also has a number to call if anyone wanted a repair manual, I called and they no longer sell them. I was given another number from a company named Helms Inc. they sell 3 service manuals for about $40 a book but from a previous research I did the complete service manual is about 8 books.
@@franciscoespina23 I had a VTX1300 and a Vmax motorcycle but they are long since gone. I had found Repair manuals online for the FJ Cruiser, that's what I was able to use for this. www.purefjcruiser.com/docs/2007%20Toyota%20FJ%20Cruiser%20Repair%20Manual/#12 I was able to find this link for you, you'll have to spend some time digging through it but it should have everything you are looking for.
Yes, it was tight, down here in Florida we don't have corrosion issues so it broke loose pretty easy. If you're unsure, just hit it with some PB Blaster and let it soak for a couple hours then try and get that bolt off.
@@tanktankerson1042 This was a Texas truck. So no corrosion either. Just lots of heat. I'll grab some PB Blaster and give it another shot. I appreciate the response!
Tank T your video is excellent & full of great information however I would like to add @ 7:20 you mention "there is no real reason to pull the pan". I would only add FJ's are known to go 300k+ miles (with proper maintenance) if someone bought a higher milage FJ (150k miles or more) I would pull the trans pan to clean off the magnets as some plp put their FJ's thru rock climbing and other high stress driving. PS: yours is so clean underneath - mine will be the same (if I can ever find one, I'm taking my time finding a lot of 2007 - 08's). Forums recommend not to buy a 07 - 09? How long have you had yours, how many miles on it when you purchased, and any issues? A/C still working? thanks.
I bought mine new in 07, I supercharged it in 08 after I installed the original lift kit and added larger tires. True, if I bought a high mileage FJ, I would definitely pull the pan too! I added an inline magnetic filter to the return line for the transmission also, it is on another video. Never had an issue with the AC System, and I like the drive train in the o0 - 09 models, they are tested and virtually indestructible if taken care of. Right now, I have about 62k miles on it is all and I enjoy taking care of it! I wish you the best of luck searching for one, I know they are out there and when you do find one, I also hope it's in excellent condition for you!
Sounds like maybe it was low on fluid to start with, I'd do a whole fluid change with temperature readings and using the overflow tube on the pan determine how much it actually took. A head scratcher for sure.
Very helpful. How many minutes did vehicle run to get TF up to temp for turning off and draining excess? If you don’t have access to temp check ability? Concern of damage for being too full
You can get the temp tool at a Harbor Freight Tools Store for a really good price. Not sure of how long it took since I didn't time it. As a back up, measure exactly how much fluid you removed and you could add that amount. I prefer the having the temps gauge to do it proper though.
Last question I think. Once you’ve drained and have refilled to that 4 quart range give or take m, and temp is good shifting is done - is the last step to open the Allen wrench plug and let excess drain o out? Mine drained out 2 of my 4 quarts added so seems a bit much. My concern is was I supposed to drain this at the end and if so, how do I know I have enough fluid still in the system?
I'm not a mechanic and I just followed what the manual said to do. "As far as I know" if you drain 4 quarts, you can add 4 quarts since that is the amount removed.@@wesleyveitch6323
A fresh fluid change about every 60K-ish miles is always a good thing to keep the transmissions running in tip top condition. I found out the transmissions on these FJs don't really have a filter, just a debris screen for chunky stuff so I didn't change it out. I did, however, add an inline filter to the return line from the radiator for transmission cooling, that is on a different video, that way along with the fresh fluid, I also have filtration. Thanks for commenting!
Thank you sir! Out of the 4-5 top YT videos - only one person mentioned the size of the bolt (the 15/16) of the fill hole. IDK why, but my FJ does not look like everyone else's in the video. I didn't even mean to give myself all this extra work. One YT video guy made me drain the tranny instead of the engine oil. I am past all of that tho. I am glad folks like yourself were here to help me with the process of getting my FJ back on the road. Thanks OP!
You are more than welcome! I just try to help out our fellow FJ drivers when I can.
At least you know now!
I did a transmission change on my 2007 FJ about one year ago. All I did was let the FJ and the fluid stay in the garage over night so they would be the same temperature. Then I drained the fluid into a bowl that had measurements on the side. I put the drain plug back in after it drained. I let it drain for about an hour just to get as much out as I could. Then I put that exact amount back in. They sell those cheap hand pumps that fit on the quart containers and have a hose on them. The fill plug is on the side. Please wear gloves when loosening and tightening. The transmission pan, where it connects to the transmission, is like a razor. The ratchet slipped and I cut my knuckle bad. When you pump it in the pump leaves about 2 ounces in the quart container so take that into con sideration. You need to get it as close to the amount you drained out as possible. I did the transmission change because my transmission developed a shudder at about 180,000 miles. The change immediately cured that problem and the shifts were more concise as well. I've put 13,000 miles on it since then and am super pleased with the results. I mentioned I was going to do this to the Toyota tech and the dealer. He said to make sure all your temps were right. I told him I was just going let it set overnight where everything would be the same temp and he said "Oh yeah, you can do that." Lol. So I didn't use any kind of temperature sensor. The reason these transmissions are particular about how much you put in is because of the fluid. The WS fluid expands when heated more then other fluids so every ounce is multiplied. Anyway, this is the way I did it and my transmission has performed excellent since then.
Just curious how many quarts came out on the room temperature drain and fill.I only had 3 quarts come out of mine
@@JB-lc2fn I don't remember exactly but it was roughly the same as yours. You're really just freshening the fluid up. I'm at 201,000 miles and my transmission is still doing great with no shudder. I'm planning on doing it again in about 5000 miles because that will be roughly 25000 miles since I did it and I'd like to not wait till I start having a shudder again. I will look at the bowl I drained it into and see if I can tell exactly how much I got out of it tomorrow. If I can tell I'll let you know.
Good add on details. After 20 years changing oil in my vehicles I mistakenly drained transmission pan vs oil pan. Didn’t realize this until I’d discarded the fluid. That’s why I wasn’t sure how much came out and how much to put back in. This is why I wanted to really pay attention to the purge plug process after refilling. 😅
I completed the automatic transmission oil change on my 2007 FJ Cruiser.
I fallowed the instructions per the service manual which included draining the oil, removing the transmission oil pan and the filter inside. After completing that job, I cleaned the area, cleaned the oil pan and proceeded to reinstall everything back. I installed and torqued a new transmission filter, installed a new oil pan seal, installed the oil pan and torqued all the bolts per the recommended torque value.
I installed the overflow bolt with new crush washer and the drain bolt with a new crush washer as well.
Before I started to fill the transmission I decided to torque the drain bolt since I figured I didn’t have to use it again. The service manual calls for the transmission drain bolt to be torqued at 21 ft lbs. That damaged the bolt and in turn damaged my oil pan. I ended up buying a new oil pan, oil pan seal, drain bolt and crush washer. After additional research I came across another person that had gone thru the same problem.
I also own a 4Runner and the torque values for the 4Runner were the same as the FJ Cruiser except the transmission drain bolt was torqued at 15 ft lbs and that’s what I used for the drain bolt on my FJ transmission drain bolt.
In my opinion there is a typo there and that cost me.
Thanks for the heads up, I'll use the new torque values the next time I replace the fluid and install an aftermarket, oversized, aluminum finned transmission oil pan since I tow with my FJ.
?... at around 15:00 mark, he says it takes a little more than 4 quarts if not taking off drain pan. But then recommends and shows 4 quarts of ATF, not 5. So guessing he meant to say a little more than 3 quarts, which would mean getting 4 quarts.
Remember, I'm not a Mechanic but I used 4 quarts plus an AT fluid additive from Lucas. Haven't has any issues since and it runs and shifts like new.
Good video, but just an FYI, the WS fluid gets discolored overtime which is normal, but doesn't hurt to do a drain and fill every couple years or so! The fluid coming out of your trans didn't look too bad, now the crap I pulled from the 190K FJ I bought was another story!
That must have been a mess, I just don't like to wait too long for fluids to go bad and start wearing on the mechanisms. It's easy and not expensive so I just like to stay ahead of things. Thanks for the comments!
Thank you. As a fellow FJ owner, your channel is great. Subscribed!
Thanks Jerry, your comments are always appreciated.
What size is the add bolt
Thank you this is by far the best video I have seen all the other ones are trash compared to yours I was so lost watching all the other ones I’ve watched and looking at all of those forums that you spoke about on your video but now after I watched your video I’m confident I can easily do this myself and will be doing it tomorrow. Thank you.
Thanks Amber, I always tell everyone, "Hell if I can do it, anyone can do it!" Just take your time and you'll be a pro at it in no time. Thanks for the great comment/
Don't leave me hanging Amber, how did it turn out?
Thank you for the video but you never mentioned the torque values for the drain bolt, overflow bolt and the fill bolt. FYI, my 2007 FJ Cruiser is not a 4 wheel drive model and the transmission has the fill bolt towards the end of the transmission near the driveshaft. Could you please provide the torque values? Unfortunately there is a lot of confusion regarding this, the torque value changes depending on which video you watch.
I had looked online for torque values and used those. Thank goodness for the internet. Plus, I can't remember if the torque values were in the owners manual under the maintenance section or not. The overflow bolt is an allen wrench type and it is made of extremely soft metal and easy to strip out so since this video. I looked online and have purchased some of the same so I can swap it out the next time I change the fluid.
@@tanktankerson1042 I see that you also have a Haley. I have the original owner"s manual and the only information it has regarding the automatic transmission is the amount of fluid to do a "drain and refill", according to my owner's manual it is 3.2 qts. My owner's manual also has a number to call if anyone wanted a repair manual, I called and they no longer sell them. I was given another number from a company named Helms Inc. they sell 3 service manuals for about $40 a book but from a previous research I did the complete service manual is about 8 books.
@@franciscoespina23 I had a VTX1300 and a Vmax motorcycle but they are long since gone. I had found Repair manuals online for the FJ Cruiser, that's what I was able to use for this.
www.purefjcruiser.com/docs/2007%20Toyota%20FJ%20Cruiser%20Repair%20Manual/#12
I was able to find this link for you, you'll have to spend some time digging through it but it should have everything you are looking for.
I just got quoted 250.00 at a toyota dealership for this transmission fluid change.
Is the same washer used on both the drain plug and the over flow plug ?
If memory serves, I do believe so, that's why I bought the ten piece transmission washer set off Amazon.
@@tanktankerson1042 thanks for the prompt response
Thank you for sharing. My 2013 Trail Teams edition needs the same thing.
It really isn't a bad job to do and your transmission will thank you for it.
@@tanktankerson1042 you keep a clean rig. It's obvious to me that you take pride in ownership. Again, thank you for sharing.
How on earth did you get the oil fill bolt loose? I'm afraid I might round the bolt it's so tight. And it is a 15/16 right?
Yes, it was tight, down here in Florida we don't have corrosion issues so it broke loose pretty easy. If you're unsure, just hit it with some PB Blaster and let it soak for a couple hours then try and get that bolt off.
@@tanktankerson1042 This was a Texas truck. So no corrosion either. Just lots of heat. I'll grab some PB Blaster and give it another shot. I appreciate the response!
Tank T your video is excellent & full of great information however I would like to add @ 7:20 you mention "there is no real reason to pull the pan". I would only add FJ's are known to go 300k+ miles (with proper maintenance) if someone bought a higher milage FJ (150k miles or more) I would pull the trans pan to clean off the magnets as some plp put their FJ's thru rock climbing and other high stress driving. PS: yours is so clean underneath - mine will be the same (if I can ever find one, I'm taking my time finding a lot of 2007 - 08's). Forums recommend not to buy a 07 - 09? How long have you had yours, how many miles on it when you purchased, and any issues? A/C still working? thanks.
Are you California or Arizona? Your FJ is so Clean underneath.
@@onenikkione Florida 🙂
I bought mine new in 07, I supercharged it in 08 after I installed the original lift kit and added larger tires.
True, if I bought a high mileage FJ, I would definitely pull the pan too! I added an inline magnetic filter to the return line for the transmission also, it is on another video.
Never had an issue with the AC System, and I like the drive train in the o0 - 09 models, they are tested and virtually indestructible if taken care of.
Right now, I have about 62k miles on it is all and I enjoy taking care of it!
I wish you the best of luck searching for one, I know they are out there and when you do find one, I also hope it's in excellent condition for you!
should i take the overfill plug completely out when im draining the excess Trans fluid?
That's what the manual says to do and when it is down to a "trickle" you just reinstall it.
mine only drains 2 qt only
Sounds like maybe it was low on fluid to start with, I'd do a whole fluid change with temperature readings and using the overflow tube on the pan determine how much it actually took. A head scratcher for sure.
what the part number for the drain and fill?
All the parts are listed in the description
Very helpful. How many minutes did vehicle run to get TF up to temp for turning off and draining excess? If you don’t have access to temp check ability? Concern of damage for being too full
You can get the temp tool at a Harbor Freight Tools Store for a really good price. Not sure of how long it took since I didn't time it. As a back up, measure exactly how much fluid you removed and you could add that amount. I prefer the having the temps gauge to do it proper though.
Last question I think. Once you’ve drained and have refilled to that 4 quart range give or take m, and temp is good shifting is done - is the last step to open the Allen wrench plug and let excess drain o out? Mine drained out 2 of my 4 quarts added so seems a bit much.
My concern is was I supposed to drain this at the end and if so, how do I know I have enough fluid still in the system?
I'm not a mechanic and I just followed what the manual said to do. "As far as I know" if you drain 4 quarts, you can add 4 quarts since that is the amount removed.@@wesleyveitch6323
That coloration is just dye. It probably changes pretty quickly.
Not sure, I think they put it in for a reason, but nonetheless, every 60 thousand miles is when I change out the fluid. Thanks for the comment.
thank you this was very helpful. my tranny on my 07 has been having a bit of a delayed engagment when in drive. its very sporatic
A fresh fluid change about every 60K-ish miles is always a good thing to keep the transmissions running in tip top condition. I found out the transmissions on these FJs don't really have a filter, just a debris screen for chunky stuff so I didn't change it out. I did, however, add an inline filter to the return line from the radiator for transmission cooling, that is on a different video, that way along with the fresh fluid, I also have filtration. Thanks for commenting!
Great video, you’re a bit stuck on the word “crush washer” but great content.
🤣
Great video, helped a lot. Thanks.
Your welcome Jeff, it's the main reason I post my videos, thanks for the comment.
Thank you
You are more than welcome! I just try to help out our fellow FJ drivers.