I like to see them done every 20,000 because it's not expensive to do it but maximum 30,000 don't ever do what the manufacturer recommends this is not a lifetime fluid it gets baked behind that motor
Ford : fluid is good for the lifetime of the vehicle . Me : I don't think so ! Just changed the fluid on my Taurus X a few months ago . Unfortunately there is no drain plug on the PTU so I had to siphon it out the fill hole . What I got out was mostly black sludge . I plan on changing it again at my next oil change just to be safe seeing it only takes half a quart .
100% that's the only way to service the ones that don't have a drain plug if you have to siphon it out luckily I have a transmission machine or an extractor machine to do it so I get 99.9% of it out when I do it
You fall into the trap of mistaking designed lifetime versus your definition of lifetime. The designed lifetime is 120-150K miles. So it is correct the fluid will last the designed lifetime just not your expected lifetime.
Thanks for this. I followed your procedure and just did my fluid change in my 2019 Escape SE at 48,015 km (29,835 miles). I know that it's past your recommended interval, but I didn't know that until I saw your video. Old fluid was dark. No big pieces of metal on the magnetic drain plug, just some sludge. As per other videos on changing the PTU oil, I ordered and tried a TP50 (torx plus) vice just a regular T50. The TP50 fit a lot better. Anyways, thanks again and thank you for the other videos you make, especially the ones about taking care of yourself.
Thank god someone finally said “it takes about half a quart,” I’ve been doing PTU fluid changes for awhile and almost every video said “it’s a quart of fluid.” I remember thinking something was really wrong when mine filled up super quick, but yeah I guess they just have like no capacity.
I wish my SHO was that easy...lol. No performance package on mine. I replaced my PTU but drilled, tapped, and installed a drain plug....much easier now to service my "lifetime" oil!!!
It's a ploy to keep maintenance cost low while under warranty, then as soon as warranty is up...boom! Shit hits the fan and you're on the hook for the large bill 🤣
Yes. I had a 2014 SHO with the performance package. This had a drain plug and made sure my dealership changed my PTU fluid. Only cost $74 for oil change (Canadian)
That looked good compared to my 2017 Escape PTU. I changed the fluid at 5k and it just looked like thick black sludge. I put Redline in it and checked it again at 10k. The 10k drain was beautiful. That PTU is right next to the cat and the Ford dino oil just curdles in the heat.
I think it has less to do with the kind of oil, and more to do with the break-in period. Once the gears and bearings bedded in, the new oil didn't have to suspend the particulate matter shed from the brand new gears in the first ~5,000 miles.
Be sure to change the rear differential oil. That crap was disgusting black / green and thick. If you haven’t don’t it, it’s not that bad once you figure out a system.
Mine was whining loudly then I took it in to the garage and they drained it and filled it. Most of the whine has stopped. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THE INFORMATION.
I have an 18 explorer xlt with a 3.5 non turbo engine. The PTU does not have a drain plug in it, just a fill plug. I plan on sucking it out and refilling at 30,000 miles. I also added a PTU air cooling duct to help cool the PTU and blow the heat from the cat convertor and exhaust away from the PTU. The air cooling duct was factory on vehicles with towing package or the turbo 4 cylinder so my explorer did not have it from the factory. I figured the cooling duct should help some. It was less than $100 and was easy to install.
I've changed mine at 48000km on my escape titanium 2018 and was not that dark but a lot of shavings on the magnet. I'm using motul now and quiet down the noise. Good work!!!!
Great demonstration. I just did the ptu on my daughters Escape at about 40,000. A little debris on the magnet, not too bad. Should be good for another 30k.
Did this when I did an oil change since I had some leftover from my truck used Redline 75W140 in it. Oil I used Liqui Moly Molygen 5W30 in the 2.3 Ecoboost with a Royal Purple filter number 10-2835 if someone is curious.
I just bought a used 2018 escape with 56k miles on it, I'll be doing this for sure. Thank you! Assuming it's never been done in the 56k miles on the car, do you think my ptu lost some life span because of it?
228k miles on my 13 escape just changed the trans fluid for first time might have to change this as well just to see what it looks like after so many miles. hopefully changing them at this point doesn't do more harm than good
Good video. One thing: my shop manual says 25 lb-ft (34 Nm) torque, not 33 lb-ft. Just did my first change at 62k mi, 10 years. Looked like this video but lots of rumbling sounds coming from PTU. Shopping for new PTU.😪
I always recommend these transmission and transfer case fluid changes around every 45-50k, so what the manual says its lifetime fluid or 100k miles under extreme driving conditions? I don’t want to see people in the same boat I’ve been in, I want to try to help them make their cars last and educate them on what needs to be serviced for the vehicle/car to last in the long run, for the next owner, etc
I don’t own one of these, but from what I have seen they are constantly getting baked from basically all sides. As picky as I am, I would probably service it every oil change. Some would say that’s a waste of money, but if your doing it yourself, it’s only half a quart like you said. Oem parts are way more expensive than oil.
@@TavosMr I saw a lot of videos of failed Escape PTUs that had paste like remains of oil instead of liquid oil in them. So I went and changed the remains of the oil in my Escape PTU at 5k. I’m glad I didn’t wait. I put in Redline gear oil and checked it at 10k. It was nice. Night and day difference. The stuff FORD put in the PTU was cooked to the point it wasn’t liquid any more.
Great minds think alike. I'm actually planning on doing this service to my wife's 2019 Explorer Sport when she reaches her 50K kms (30K miles), to go along with the transmission service and maybe even a rear diff service. Sadly though, with that 3.5L EcoBoost and coolant cooled PTU, it's not going to be nearly as simple and accessible as it was for the Escape you featured in your video.
Great video. I would like to see you disassemble and work on something like this some time I think it would be really cool to really get to know how something like this works. Maybe it's just me?
My daughter has a 2015 Escape 2.0 EcoBoost AWD. I change the PTU fluid every 15k miles with Amsoil Severe Gear 75W-140. I am always amazed how much metal is on the drain plug and how much of a beating the fluid takes in such a short period of time. I would love to see you service the rear differential - it seems like it's almost impossible unless you drop the rear subframe.
I took my MKZ in for a drain and fill at 29k miles the PTU was cracked on top it was a CPO Warranty item but still 29k miles I had them replace the gear oil in the back and it too was oxidized. I have 5600 miles on the new PTU I'm debating on replacing the gear oil because 30k is to long it cooks from the engine heat, transmission heat as well as the cat. I still love my 3.7L V6 AWD MKZ
I change the front and rear diff and the transfer case on my 07 Tacoma every 30,000. Might be overkill because I use premium fluid but it makes me feel better lol
I stopped using manufacturing recommendations back in the early 90s. What we saw in the shop did not show that lifetime this and extended servicing this worked at all. In every situation mercedes altered their recommendations.
I had a 2007 Jeep Liberty Diesel with the Automatic, "Lifetime Fluid." $800 later for a new solenoid pack later, I learned my lesson. Change it no further thank 30,000 miles!
I had to replace my PTU at 70K miles and the older Escape's did not even have a drain plug. With only 1/2 a Qt I'm surprised they don't blow all the time. after having mine blow out I change the oil every year now.
I have 2017 Escape with no fill plug. It's a pain and a few extra bucks but I have my Mechanic change it every third oil change. On mybmodel the turbo downpipe is very close to the ptu and the excess heat cooks the fluid causing it to go bad real fast. Mechanic says he's replaced a LOT of PTU's because people think they're "Lubed For Life" like Ford says.
Bro, love your content! Do you have a email where we can ask you questions? I just brought new 2023 f150 3.5 eco and when would be best fluid changes for diffs,transfer,antifreeze,oilI’m trying to keep the truck for a long time!!!! Please keep content your the best! Thanks for your knowledge
It looks like it would be almost worth it to rig an electric pump and a spin-on filter to the drain and fill ports, to try to filter some of that out during operation. I would have the pump turn on any time the ignition key is on. Even if you do it for just ~5,000 miles, during break-in. (Put the most powerful Neodymium magnets you can find on the filter housing) After that, change the oil at the intervals you suggested, if you remove the pump and filter.
I wish all their PTUs had a drain plug to start with. My '13 Edge still has the old school one, single plug. Have to suck it out as best you can . I got a vacuum brake bleeder, get some hose extensions, going smaller near the end to get in and around as far as possible. I don't dare drill and tap a hole in case I break something. There is a small sweat spot you can do it, but no thanks. Filling I just have a hand pump that screws on top of oil bottles to fill. On ramps, you find out how weird you can lay on the floor to do something.
Manufacturers recommended changes on all fluids are just to get it to last past the warranty period. I cut them in half for my vehicles. I also give a squirt of new fluid until it comes out clean from the drain before I put the drain plug back in. It gets rid of all the crap sitting at the bottom.
With a magnetic drain plug and that much glitter I might want to change the PTU fluid several times in a row to really let the magnet catch all the particles. Have you ever drained it into a plastic container and put a powerful magnet against the side of the container to see if all the metal flake is iron based and how much is aluminum from spinning bearing races pressed into the housing at room temp but coming loose at highway temps allowing them to spin as the case expands faster than the races
If that's something that you would particularly do yourself great idea but remember the customers pay me to do a service not three services so I cannot do that at the dealership if they're not paying for it
That would be a good candidate for a little motorkote ! ive been using this stuff for about 8 years now and i use it in everything ! the prob you have there is it only holds a 1/2 qrt .
I wouldn't touch motorkote. It has chlorinated paraffin in it. It definitely reduces friction! Up until it turns acidic, and etches micro cracks into the metal. Not worth it. It's a snake oil that harms long-term. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Love the idea and believe it helps. But if you live in CA you will never get a Biannual Smog Inspection Pass with that in there, when they do the Visual Inspection.. I hate it...
Thanks mate. I have an AWD 2016 Escape 2.0L diesel and only yesterday had my PTU serviced for the very first time at 65,000 kms (40,500 miles). Initially the Ford dealer said it wasn't necessary as it is non serviceable. But I insisted and asked him to leave me a sample of drained oil and leave me on a piece of paper the metallic junk off the magnetic plug to look at. The sample off the drained oil looked a lot lighter than one I saw on your clip for the 1.6L petrol Escape. Also, no metal slithers was on the plug.........only what looked like 3mm of black greasy sludge (obviously a fine metal wear) Now that it is out of warranty, I intend to change the PTU oil every 30,000 kms (18,600 miles) PLEASE: I would appreciate your response to this question:- Are all AWD Escape variants (1.5L and 2.0L petrol, and the 2.0L diesel) have the same PTU? or different PTUs? Thanks in advance and PLEASE keep up your wonderful informative clips. I always learn from you for which I am always very grateful). May you always be filled by the love of our Christ and surround by the protection of the Holy Spirit
I wonder if ford engineering has ordered oversize bearing races to allow FARS to bore the cases oversize. Heat them to operating temp plus and freeze shrink the races to install them for the perfect fit hot and a way to salvage cases
Thanks for the great info Are all the post 2014 AWD Escape variants (1.5L and 2.0L petrol, and the 2.0L diesel) have the same PTU? or different PTUs? thanks in advance
They don’t manufacture these to exact tolerances if you’re getting metal in the fluid. However once the fluid is first changed it should not continue to get metal in it??
My owners manual has normal operating recommendations and severe service recommendations. Basically, if you ever start the car and drive it, you fall under "severe service" criteria they have listed. It recommends slightly shorter oil drain intervals and lifetime transmission fluid has to be changed.
Do you think 75W-140 is too thick of a gear oil for these PTU's? Maybe that's another part of why they fail; along with the other factors, like being baked by the catalytic converters. I hearthe thicker fluids create more heat because of the viscosity's resistance to kinetic energy. My Ford EcoSport's PTU uses 75W-85. I don't hear about it's PTU failing like the other models. I plan on changing it's PTU oil very soon. 75W-140 may be too thick of a viscosity for it, but I also feel that 75W-85 is too thin. I already bought Valvoline 75W-140, but maybe I should try Amsoil's 75W-110? More robust, but not too thick. Amsoil lists it as an option for the EcoSport.
If it was my vehicle I might try something like that but because it's not my vehicle and it's still under warranty extended warranty I wouldn't even try
you could use 1/2 quart rotate some and then drain. it would act like a flush. you won't do much good with your idea because so much remains stuck to the gears
Your lucky on the South African model Kuga there's no room. Strange how same basic cars differ so much. On the front transfer box has torx 50 plugs again little space. But at least have a fill drain plug. Although both have these type of plugs.
Can you make a link or a sheet of some sort of sheet of when you would recommend maintenance intervals ? Would be great for guys like me that do there own work but don't have much to go by other than factory recommended
It's been a while since I did it I would have to look at the manual because some of it requires friction modifier and some of it doesn't it should tell you in your owner's manual
I have a 2016 Escape 2.0 Ecoboost. I have no way to change the fluid in the PTU. I have asked two different Ford service departments about servicing the PTU. Both have told me it is a non-serviceable unit. I’m thinking about taking it to a transmission shop and asking them to do it.
A lot of times they're overfilled as well mechanics will fill them up until they're coming out and then they will hurry up and stick the plug in... I've seen it happen a thousand times I wouldn't say it if I didn't believe it was true
@@FordBossMe I did do that didnt know anything at the time guess mainly made sure it had fluid in it. Never know nowadays people go 20k on oil lol need to get that fluid replaced now watched the video seems almost same as a my transfercase system besides the fluids my plugs had paint marks on them so put back way I found it
Fluid Extractor? 😂 I used a cheap TURKEY baster thing on my stuff i jammed some rubber hose on the end to make it go deeper into a housing. I know it's the cheap way to do it but it worked decent for me basically got all the fluid out except a few table spoons or so
What ever gets the job done If it's too loose, grab a spiral ham shove it inside and pull the bone out of the center What ever works to get the job done
The problem with all front mounted PTU s is there’s no cooling. They’re tucked up behind the motor surrounded by heat from the motor and exhaust. The small amount of oil in there doesn’t last long compared to something that holds 2 quarts or more
Transmissions are becoming lifetime fill. At the same time I wonder if the oems are not completely crazy either. Cannot tell you how many vehicles the transmission was never serviced on easily hit 250k before dying. Sure servicing them would have greatly extended the life but 300k is end of life for most cars. Now with that said I service any fluids I can all the way down to the brake fluid, just wondering if the oem lifetime fills are not completely outlandish.
Manual says 17.8 oz. Tried to do mine today and factory over torque the damn plugs!! Tried three different T50’s, feel lose…And I’m the one and only owner. Did my f150 last week first time at 80k, color good and no sparkles.
Having been a machinist I don't think that metal means much. Just from running the gears in. Why changing fluid at 20,000 is important to get the metal out.
@@FordBossMe ok thx and also one more question the steering wheel is hard to turn I bought the vehicle last year with 60,000 kms and it was fine and the last couple weeks it's been acting up
I don't have alot of miles on my 2015 edge AWD 27k to be exact had diffs and PTU serviced they were like recommended was 100k, nope service it, I now go to another dealership. Cheap maintenance.
If it's that bad I'd want to flush it with some cheap trans fluid, drive it around a few blocks or so, then drain & fill again with fresh gear oil. Overkill for a shop maybe for DIY it's worth the extra effort.
The whole trans fluid thing is really just a myth it's not really that great you have to drive the vehicle for a long time in order for it to function properly so just quick flushes trans fluid is not a good idea
@@FordBossMe I actually just did this. Fluid was in about same cond as in your video but was still fairly contaminated after second drain. I suggested using trans fluid, not for the cleaning agents but just because it's thin. And only dove it 1/2 mile at low speed around the neighborhood, just enough for it to slosh around inside a bit.
This is probably a problem on the older gen vehicles too. I have a 2010 escape and the PTU looks identical except it has no drain plug and uses a standard 3/8 ratchet to come out.
Yeah so if you look in some of the other comments where I'm talking to people you can actually see how I do the single plug deal I serviced it by sucking it out and then putting it back in the same hole
I don't remember every single one by year but it is possible it just all depends on which particular PTU you have some of them you can service like this some of them you have to service through the same hole if you look in the comments section here we can see many people say they have to use the same hole to suck it out of and put it back in
Hey Boss, I’m 18 and and trying to get started in the automotive field. I’ve applied at my local Ford dealer and talked to the service advisor multiple times. Yet they still won’t hire me, he’s told me multiple times id get a call when a beginner position opens up. Yet he posted that position online as available and didn’t call me like he said. Any tips?
Yeah don't quit bugging the s*** out of him until he tells you not to bug him anymore and then do it again anyway Actually maybe one day ago show up and tell him look dude I'm ready to work man
@@FordBossMe it just doesn’t make any sense to me, I hear everyone’s short staffed and the chip shortage may play a role in this but, I’m EAGER to learn, I WANT to learn, and I WANT to work, yet I get no call back.
Look at the entire automotive service industry. My nephew got some training in high school, then got a job at an auto parts store, moved into management, and now manages a few franchised repair shops. The rest of the advice generic for any job. Keep learning, and get good job references, and don't be lazy on the job, they aren't the ones who get promoted. Practice dealing with difficult people, as that's going to be part of the job, even if it's a manager you don't get along with. You may not end up at a dealership, but sometimes jobs posted online aren't real, they may be slated for their second cousins kid, but they have to post the job to keep their manager happy.
dude if you want to get your foot in the door you gotta go to school, get your ASE cert. Too many overqualified people looking for jobs right now for them to hire an 18yr old kid off the street.
It's going to have to be drilled out or you're going to have to get some kind of tool wedge into it to get it broke loose you're going to have to get it to a shop and then pay them to extract it
When should we do the ptu service, to avoid problems?
I like to see them done every 20,000 because it's not expensive to do it but maximum 30,000 don't ever do what the manufacturer recommends this is not a lifetime fluid it gets baked behind that motor
honestly 15k with synthetic because the ptu has less than a water bottles worth of gear oil and it gets heated to hell.
What ever the factory suggested interval....
Half!
@@RJ_Cormac lol
@@FordBossMe Hey man, what did you think about that TRUE BRAND engine flush? Also, how did that STP engine flush compare to the BG EPR? Thanks.
Ford : fluid is good for the lifetime of the vehicle . Me : I don't think so ! Just changed the fluid on my Taurus X a few months ago . Unfortunately there is no drain plug on the PTU so I had to siphon it out the fill hole . What I got out was mostly black sludge . I plan on changing it again at my next oil change just to be safe seeing it only takes half a quart .
100% that's the only way to service the ones that don't have a drain plug if you have to siphon it out luckily I have a transmission machine or an extractor machine to do it so I get 99.9% of it out when I do it
You fall into the trap of mistaking designed lifetime versus your definition of lifetime. The designed lifetime is 120-150K miles. So it is correct the fluid will last the designed lifetime just not your expected lifetime.
Correct torque: tighten until it breaks then back it off 1/2 turn. Works every time and don't need no stinken torque wrench. (old joke)
Shhhh dont say that, you might upset a keyboard warrior! 😂
I back it off a 1/4 turn...dont wanna UN-torque it....😁
Thanks for this. I followed your procedure and just did my fluid change in my 2019 Escape SE at 48,015 km (29,835 miles). I know that it's past your recommended interval, but I didn't know that until I saw your video. Old fluid was dark. No big pieces of metal on the magnetic drain plug, just some sludge. As per other videos on changing the PTU oil, I ordered and tried a TP50 (torx plus) vice just a regular T50. The TP50 fit a lot better. Anyways, thanks again and thank you for the other videos you make, especially the ones about taking care of yourself.
Thank god someone finally said “it takes about half a quart,” I’ve been doing PTU fluid changes for awhile and almost every video said “it’s a quart of fluid.” I remember thinking something was really wrong when mine filled up super quick, but yeah I guess they just have like no capacity.
I wish my SHO was that easy...lol. No performance package on mine. I replaced my PTU but drilled, tapped, and installed a drain plug....much easier now to service my "lifetime" oil!!!
Dedication, devotion, turning all the night time into the day!
Déjà vu...
It's a ploy to keep maintenance cost low while under warranty, then as soon as warranty is up...boom! Shit hits the fan and you're on the hook for the large bill 🤣
sadly probably true
Any trannie with CVT is a ticking money pit
Yes. I had a 2014 SHO with the performance package. This had a drain plug and made sure my dealership changed my PTU fluid. Only cost $74 for oil change (Canadian)
That looked good compared to my 2017 Escape PTU. I changed the fluid at 5k and it just looked like thick black sludge. I put Redline in it and checked it again at 10k. The 10k drain was beautiful. That PTU is right next to the cat and the Ford dino oil just curdles in the heat.
Home made heat shield.
His ford oil was Syn
I think it has less to do with the kind of oil, and more to do with the break-in period. Once the gears and bearings bedded in, the new oil didn't have to suspend the particulate matter shed from the brand new gears in the first ~5,000 miles.
@@vincentrobinette1507 i’m glad i didn’t wait. It wasn’t what I would call liquid already.
Be sure to change the rear differential oil. That crap was disgusting black / green and thick. If you haven’t don’t it, it’s not that bad once you figure out a system.
Mine was whining loudly then I took it in to the garage and they drained it and filled it. Most of the whine has stopped. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THE INFORMATION.
Ford PTU's are notorious for a bunch of metal coming out..I've serviced quite a few of these at our shop
I have an 18 explorer xlt with a 3.5 non turbo engine. The PTU does not have a drain plug in it, just a fill plug. I plan on sucking it out and refilling at 30,000 miles. I also added a PTU air cooling duct to help cool the PTU and blow the heat from the cat convertor and exhaust away from the PTU. The air cooling duct was factory on vehicles with towing package or the turbo 4 cylinder so my explorer did not have it from the factory. I figured the cooling duct should help some. It was less than $100 and was easy to install.
Thats bad ass u are a rare breed u take pride in your work
I've changed mine at 48000km on my escape titanium 2018 and was not that dark but a lot of shavings on the magnet. I'm using motul now and quiet down the noise. Good work!!!!
Some of the motul oils smell just like bubblegum.
@@daviddickson412 Also they look like a blueberry syrup too!!!
@@daviddickson412 no I don't get that bubblegum scent. It is unique though
which one? I use Motul gear oil in gearbox 75-90
@@jamesmedina2062 75w140 full synthetic and works great. Cheaper than the oem stuff.
Great advice on pulling the fill first. Not just the air to drain but if you can't get the fill open and you drain.....then??
Great demonstration. I just did the ptu on my daughters Escape at about 40,000. A little debris on the magnet, not too bad. Should be good for another 30k.
Did this when I did an oil change since I had some leftover from my truck used Redline 75W140 in it.
Oil I used Liqui Moly Molygen 5W30 in the 2.3 Ecoboost with a Royal Purple filter number 10-2835 if someone is curious.
I just bought a used 2018 escape with 56k miles on it, I'll be doing this for sure. Thank you!
Assuming it's never been done in the 56k miles on the car, do you think my ptu lost some life span because of it?
228k miles on my 13 escape just changed the trans fluid for first time might have to change this as well just to see what it looks like after so many miles. hopefully changing them at this point doesn't do more harm than good
Great 80's music in the background.!
Good video. One thing: my shop manual says 25 lb-ft (34 Nm) torque, not 33 lb-ft.
Just did my first change at 62k mi, 10 years. Looked like this video but lots of rumbling sounds coming from PTU. Shopping for new PTU.😪
I always recommend these transmission and transfer case fluid changes around every 45-50k, so what the manual says its lifetime fluid or 100k miles under extreme driving conditions? I don’t want to see people in the same boat I’ve been in, I want to try to help them make their cars last and educate them on what needs to be serviced for the vehicle/car to last in the long run, for the next owner, etc
I don’t own one of these, but from what I have seen they are constantly getting baked from basically all sides. As picky as I am, I would probably service it every oil change. Some would say that’s a waste of money, but if your doing it yourself, it’s only half a quart like you said. Oem parts are way more expensive than oil.
Thanks man to share that information. I will do mine every 10,000 miles. 2018 Ford Escape 👍
Why wait? The stock Ford fluid in my 2017 Escape was thick black sludge at 5k!
@@ericrupert2687 do you think should do now? Mine have 6000 miles, don’t drive too much.
@@TavosMr I saw a lot of videos of failed Escape PTUs that had paste like remains of oil instead of liquid oil in them. So I went and changed the remains of the oil in my Escape PTU at 5k. I’m glad I didn’t wait. I put in Redline gear oil and checked it at 10k. It was nice. Night and day difference. The stuff FORD put in the PTU was cooked to the point it wasn’t liquid any more.
@@ericrupert2687 thanks, I will follow your advice and change mine now.👍
That gear lube was fancy. Had sparklies in it! It's odd Ford would consider that normal. But they built it so I guess they know best.
Great minds think alike. I'm actually planning on doing this service to my wife's 2019 Explorer Sport when she reaches her 50K kms (30K miles), to go along with the transmission service and maybe even a rear diff service. Sadly though, with that 3.5L EcoBoost and coolant cooled PTU, it's not going to be nearly as simple and accessible as it was for the Escape you featured in your video.
Great video. I would like to see you disassemble and work on something like this some time I think it would be really cool to really get to know how something like this works. Maybe it's just me?
I use a boat gear case filler for ptu transfer cases etc. the tube attaches to the top of quart bottle of fluid.
Yeah I actually have a pumping machine that fills and pulls out I just don't use it for smaller jobs but your way it's definitely pretty good
My daughter has a 2015 Escape 2.0 EcoBoost AWD. I change the PTU fluid every 15k miles with Amsoil Severe Gear 75W-140. I am always amazed how much metal is on the drain plug and how much of a beating the fluid takes in such a short period of time. I would love to see you service the rear differential - it seems like it's almost impossible unless you drop the rear subframe.
So on this one there is a drain plug and there is a fill plug so it's not hard to do on this one some of them don't have that
Some of them only have a fill plug only and you have to use an extractor to pull it out
@@FordBossMe thats why I hate engineers.
I took my MKZ in for a drain and fill at 29k miles the PTU was cracked on top it was a CPO Warranty item but still 29k miles I had them replace the gear oil in the back and it too was oxidized. I have 5600 miles on the new PTU I'm debating on replacing the gear oil because 30k is to long it cooks from the engine heat, transmission heat as well as the cat. I still love my 3.7L V6 AWD MKZ
I change the front and rear diff and the transfer case on my 07 Tacoma every 30,000. Might be overkill because I use premium fluid but it makes me feel better lol
That's good practice, nothing wrong with that.
Fluids are cheaper than a new gearbox or diff. How much money are you really saving pushing it longer?
@@dmgetz14 exactly and when it's less than a quart of fluid.
30k Diff service on Toyota's are not overkill, they are actually manufacturer recommended.
I stopped using manufacturing recommendations back in the early 90s. What we saw in the shop did not show that lifetime this and extended servicing this worked at all. In every situation mercedes altered their recommendations.
I had a 2007 Jeep Liberty Diesel with the Automatic, "Lifetime Fluid." $800 later for a new solenoid pack later, I learned my lesson. Change it no further thank 30,000 miles!
I had to replace my PTU at 70K miles and the older Escape's did not even have a drain plug. With only 1/2 a Qt I'm surprised they don't blow all the time.
after having mine blow out I change the oil every year now.
Is that one of Ford's better ideas? Thank you for the video sir.
I have 2017 Escape with no fill plug. It's a pain and a few extra bucks but I have my Mechanic change it every third oil change. On mybmodel the turbo downpipe is very close to the ptu and the excess heat cooks the fluid causing it to go bad real fast. Mechanic says he's replaced a LOT of PTU's because people think they're "Lubed For Life" like Ford says.
Bro, love your content! Do you have a email where we can ask you questions? I just brought new 2023 f150 3.5 eco and when would be best fluid changes for diffs,transfer,antifreeze,oilI’m trying to keep the truck for a long time!!!! Please keep content your the best! Thanks for your knowledge
It looks like it would be almost worth it to rig an electric pump and a spin-on filter to the drain and fill ports, to try to filter some of that out during operation. I would have the pump turn on any time the ignition key is on. Even if you do it for just ~5,000 miles, during break-in. (Put the most powerful Neodymium magnets you can find on the filter housing) After that, change the oil at the intervals you suggested, if you remove the pump and filter.
I wish all their PTUs had a drain plug to start with. My '13 Edge still has the old school one, single plug. Have to suck it out as best you can . I got a vacuum brake bleeder, get some hose extensions, going smaller near the end to get in and around as far as possible. I don't dare drill and tap a hole in case I break something. There is a small sweat spot you can do it, but no thanks. Filling I just have a hand pump that screws on top of oil bottles to fill. On ramps, you find out how weird you can lay on the floor to do something.
Manufacturers recommended changes on all fluids are just to get it to last past the warranty period. I cut them in half for my vehicles. I also give a squirt of new fluid until it comes out clean from the drain before I put the drain plug back in. It gets rid of all the crap sitting at the bottom.
With a magnetic drain plug and that much glitter I might want to change the PTU fluid several times in a row to really let the magnet catch all the particles. Have you ever drained it into a plastic container and put a powerful magnet against the side of the container to see if all the metal flake is iron based and how much is aluminum from spinning bearing races pressed into the housing at room temp but coming loose at highway temps allowing them to spin as the case expands faster than the races
If that's something that you would particularly do yourself great idea but remember the customers pay me to do a service not three services so I cannot do that at the dealership if they're not paying for it
Always pull your fill first so you know that you can fill it back up too
That would be a good candidate for a little motorkote ! ive been using this stuff for about 8 years now and i use it in everything ! the prob you have there is it only holds a 1/2 qrt .
yup!!! Designed to fail
I wouldn't touch motorkote. It has chlorinated paraffin in it. It definitely reduces friction! Up until it turns acidic, and etches micro cracks into the metal. Not worth it. It's a snake oil that harms long-term. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
I always follow the severe maintenance section of my maintenance manual, not the normal driving condition. My car has 163k miles drives like a champ.
Cheers Rich
I had a Ford in 1971 that the manual said the drive line is lubed for life.
What’s your thoughts on a catch can for a turbo Escape?
Like it
Love the idea and believe it helps. But if you live in CA you will never get a Biannual Smog Inspection Pass with that in there, when they do the Visual Inspection.. I hate it...
Thanks mate.
I have an AWD 2016 Escape 2.0L diesel and only yesterday had my PTU serviced for the very first time at 65,000 kms (40,500 miles).
Initially the Ford dealer said it wasn't necessary as it is non serviceable. But I insisted and asked him to leave me a sample of drained oil and leave me on a piece of paper the metallic junk off the magnetic plug to look at.
The sample off the drained oil looked a lot lighter than one I saw on your clip for the 1.6L petrol Escape. Also, no metal slithers was on the plug.........only what looked like 3mm of black greasy sludge (obviously a fine metal wear)
Now that it is out of warranty, I intend to change the PTU oil every 30,000 kms (18,600 miles)
PLEASE: I would appreciate your response to this question:-
Are all AWD Escape variants (1.5L and 2.0L petrol, and the 2.0L diesel) have the same PTU? or different PTUs?
Thanks in advance and PLEASE keep up your wonderful informative clips. I always learn from you for which I am always very grateful).
May you always be filled by the love of our Christ and surround by the protection of the Holy Spirit
I like it when you pull the drain plug and have to stick a small screwdriver in the hole and coax the sludge out...
I wonder if ford engineering has ordered oversize bearing races to allow FARS to bore the cases oversize. Heat them to operating temp plus and freeze shrink the races to install them for the perfect fit hot and a way to salvage cases
I use that type of extractor , filler for brake bleeding , works fine , not a milwalkee though but it should work , sucks the air out
My '13 escape had sparkles at 97k. It was the 1mm flakes I didn't like. Luckily I scored a 7k mile takeout for $94😁
Thanks for the great info
Are all the post 2014 AWD Escape variants (1.5L and 2.0L petrol, and the 2.0L diesel) have the same PTU? or different PTUs?
thanks in advance
They don’t manufacture these to exact tolerances if you’re getting metal in the fluid. However once the fluid is first changed it should not continue to get metal in it??
My owners manual has normal operating recommendations and severe service recommendations. Basically, if you ever start the car and drive it, you fall under "severe service" criteria they have listed. It recommends slightly shorter oil drain intervals and lifetime transmission fluid has to be changed.
Do you think 75W-140 is too thick of a gear oil for these PTU's? Maybe that's another part of why they fail; along with the other factors, like being baked by the catalytic converters. I hearthe thicker fluids create more heat because of the viscosity's resistance to kinetic energy.
My Ford EcoSport's PTU uses 75W-85. I don't hear about it's PTU failing like the other models. I plan on changing it's PTU oil very soon. 75W-140 may be too thick of a viscosity for it, but I also feel that 75W-85 is too thin. I already bought Valvoline 75W-140, but maybe I should try Amsoil's 75W-110? More robust, but not too thick. Amsoil lists it as an option for the EcoSport.
I'm not sure
Can you spray brake cleaner into the fill hole to flush out just a little bit more. Let it drain out, then refill with your PTO oil?
If it was my vehicle I might try something like that but because it's not my vehicle and it's still under warranty extended warranty I wouldn't even try
you could use 1/2 quart rotate some and then drain. it would act like a flush. you won't do much good with your idea because so much remains stuck to the gears
Thank you both for your comments.
Any downsides to do multiple transmission drain and fills in a 2020 escape to get more old fluid out
Your lucky on the South African model Kuga there's no room. Strange how same basic cars differ so much. On the front transfer box has torx 50 plugs again little space. But at least have a fill drain plug. Although both have these type of plugs.
Dude - I have a 1976 Fiat X1/9 and I have NEVER pulled the magnetic plug on the diff and had that much metal on it. Holy Cow!
Can you make a link or a sheet of some sort of sheet of when you would recommend maintenance intervals ? Would be great for guys like me that do there own work but don't have much to go by other than factory recommended
Yes i will
@@FordBossMe thanks so much
I’m servicing the rear differential on my F150 2 Will Dr. 2017 Should I use 75 140 or 8090 has Ford updated the weight of oil, thank you.
It's been a while since I did it I would have to look at the manual because some of it requires friction modifier and some of it doesn't it should tell you in your owner's manual
I have a 2016 Escape 2.0 Ecoboost. I have no way to change the fluid in the PTU. I have asked two different Ford service departments about servicing the PTU. Both have told me it is a non-serviceable unit. I’m thinking about taking it to a transmission shop and asking them to do it.
I don't think I've seen a power takeoff unit that I haven't been able to service yet
@@FordBossMe Thanks, I’m going to ask a different service writer.
Is everything inside the ptu,
self-clearancing ? There is a lot of metal that just is in these new fords and not in a tough way either 😐
Do you have any tips on getting the T50 Plus fill plug out? Mine won’t budge!
They sometimes are like that and it's hell getting them out, long strong ratchet and give it the beans
@@FordBossMe Thanks! Will a little heat help it along?
An old tech told me you can flush these with Kerosene - that true?
Any tips on servicing the rear? That looks impossible.
Flush with BG epr find it on Amazon
It's not that this was overfilled. The metal adds to the fluid. Just like the displacement that occurs when placing a rock in a glass of water.
I was just thinking about that when I got to your comment.
A lot of times they're overfilled as well mechanics will fill them up until they're coming out and then they will hurry up and stick the plug in... I've seen it happen a thousand times I wouldn't say it if I didn't believe it was true
Remember I do this everything single day and I see people do this stuff
@@FordBossMe I did do that didnt know anything at the time guess mainly made sure it had fluid in it. Never know nowadays people go 20k on oil lol need to get that fluid replaced now watched the video seems almost same as a my transfercase system besides the fluids my plugs had paint marks on them so put back way I found it
Oh crap it’s 0.02 milliliters over full 🙄
Fluid Extractor? 😂 I used a cheap TURKEY baster thing on my stuff i jammed some rubber hose on the end to make it go deeper into a housing. I know it's the cheap way to do it but it worked decent for me basically got all the fluid out except a few table spoons or so
I didn't wanna fork out the $$ for a good quality Fluid Extractor/ Electric Pump
What ever gets the job done
If it's too loose, grab a spiral ham shove it inside and pull the bone out of the center
What ever works to get the job done
@@FordBossMelol that will get it done! I plan on eventually getting a Electric Pump for fluids that can Pull or Fill
I've had a lot of use from my Freon Vacuum pump going thru a glass jar to collect the fluid. Originally built to change oil in jetskies.
@@Krummin That sounds like an expensive Machine tho
Can we get the info on that camera looks interesting and the ones I’ve gotten haven’t worked worth a damn
S21 Ultra Phone
The problem with all front mounted PTU s is there’s no cooling. They’re tucked up behind the motor surrounded by heat from the motor and exhaust. The small amount of oil in there doesn’t last long compared to something that holds 2 quarts or more
To boldly go where no man has gone before ...
Transmissions are becoming lifetime fill. At the same time I wonder if the oems are not completely crazy either. Cannot tell you how many vehicles the transmission was never serviced on easily hit 250k before dying. Sure servicing them would have greatly extended the life but 300k is end of life for most cars. Now with that said I service any fluids I can all the way down to the brake fluid, just wondering if the oem lifetime fills are not completely outlandish.
ANY Oem/any other Fluid will Never last a lifetime... Just think of it that way...
I change every fluid much sooner then the manufacturers recommendations😎
Manual says 17.8 oz. Tried to do mine today and factory over torque the damn plugs!! Tried three different T50’s, feel lose…And I’m the one and only owner. Did my f150 last week first time at 80k, color good and no sparkles.
Bc it’s a t50 Plus bit..
I always pull the fill first in case I can't get the drain out.
Do you need sealant on the drain plug?
Isn’t it a T50 Torx “plus?” That’s what mine is on my 1.6.
Maybe it is
@@FordBossMe thanks for reply Rich, you’re the best.
Are there any big problems with the ford escape and the 1.6 specifically? Im looking to buy one but not sure if its one to avoid.
The 1.6 liter the 1.5 L and the 2.0 liter turbo between like 2016 and 2019 have motor issues with coolant getting into the cylinders
Having been a machinist I don't think that metal means much. Just from running the gears in. Why changing fluid at 20,000 is important to get the metal out.
Ford boss me what at kilometres do you recommend the ptu be serviced because I have a 2014 ford escape 2.0 EcoBoost and it just hit 70,000 kilometres
By atleast 48k or sooner
@@FordBossMe ok thx and also one more question the steering wheel is hard to turn I bought the vehicle last year with 60,000 kms and it was fine and the last couple weeks it's been acting up
I don't have alot of miles on my 2015 edge AWD 27k to be exact had diffs and PTU serviced they were like recommended was 100k, nope service it, I now go to another dealership. Cheap maintenance.
Rich how do you change trans fluid on a Mustang with the 10R80 10 speed trans?
Do places that change oil (valvoline/jiffylube) also change the ptu fluid or is that extra?
All that's definitely extra
If it's that bad I'd want to flush it with some cheap trans fluid, drive it around a few blocks or so, then drain & fill again with fresh gear oil.
Overkill for a shop maybe for DIY it's worth the extra effort.
The whole trans fluid thing is really just a myth it's not really that great you have to drive the vehicle for a long time in order for it to function properly so just quick flushes trans fluid is not a good idea
@@FordBossMe I actually just did this. Fluid was in about same cond as in your video but was still fairly contaminated after second drain. I suggested using trans fluid, not for the cleaning agents but just because it's thin. And only dove it 1/2 mile at low speed around the neighborhood, just enough for it to slosh around inside a bit.
Did they ever put a drain plug on the Explorer PTU's. Man that was a pain!
No
I think the PTU fluid capacity is way too small. Just good enough to get through the warranty period I'm guessing?
This is probably a problem on the older gen vehicles too. I have a 2010 escape and the PTU looks identical except it has no drain plug and uses a standard 3/8 ratchet to come out.
Yeah so if you look in some of the other comments where I'm talking to people you can actually see how I do the single plug deal I serviced it by sucking it out and then putting it back in the same hole
Close, but you actually pull the fill plug first to make sure you can.
If you pull the drain first then CAN"T pull the fill, you're screwed.
I don't really understand what you're trying to correct in this video there's nothing too correct
I have a 2012 Ford Edge that I had the ptu replaced in. can it be serviced like this? couldnt find drain plugs
I don't remember every single one by year but it is possible it just all depends on which particular PTU you have
some of them you can service like this some of them you have to service through the same hole
if you look in the comments section here we can see many people say they have to use the same hole to suck it out of and put it back in
@@FordBossMe I think your right its the same
Does the PTU on a 2015 explorer have a drain plug? Or just a fill plug?
No drain hole, has to be sucked out
What does it cost to do the ptu service on my 2016 escape? I’m here in ILLINOIS
I'm not exactly sure the price I know it's like a half hour labor and then the price of the fluid
How are fords cvt’s doing?
Easy deal with a drain and fill plug. Not so much on my MKS. Change that stuff often.
Would you ever flush out a case with something if it were that bad looking?
You could do that but it would be time consuming
I do my PTU in my 2009 every year. Have 300k on it with no issues. However the rear diffs are junk.
Beautiful
Hey Boss, I’m 18 and and trying to get started in the automotive field. I’ve applied at my local Ford dealer and talked to the service advisor multiple times. Yet they still won’t hire me, he’s told me multiple times id get a call when a beginner position opens up. Yet he posted that position online as available and didn’t call me like he said. Any tips?
Yeah don't quit bugging the s*** out of him until he tells you not to bug him anymore and then do it again anyway
Actually maybe one day ago show up and tell him look dude I'm ready to work man
@@FordBossMe Golden wisdom!! Take this to the bank!
@@FordBossMe it just doesn’t make any sense to me, I hear everyone’s short staffed and the chip shortage may play a role in this but, I’m EAGER to learn, I WANT to learn, and I WANT to work, yet I get no call back.
Look at the entire automotive service industry. My nephew got some training in high school, then got a job at an auto parts store, moved into management, and now manages a few franchised repair shops. The rest of the advice generic for any job. Keep learning, and get good job references, and don't be lazy on the job, they aren't the ones who get promoted. Practice dealing with difficult people, as that's going to be part of the job, even if it's a manager you don't get along with. You may not end up at a dealership, but sometimes jobs posted online aren't real, they may be slated for their second cousins kid, but they have to post the job to keep their manager happy.
dude if you want to get your foot in the door you gotta go to school, get your ASE cert. Too many overqualified people looking for jobs right now for them to hire an 18yr old kid off the street.
sweet video
Tyvm
My fill plug is stripped out not sure how to get that out
It's going to have to be drilled out or you're going to have to get some kind of tool wedge into it to get it broke loose you're going to have to get it to a shop and then pay them to extract it
@@FordBossMe Thank you for the reply got it booked in Thursday.....Love your videos and honesty
Wonder if my 2014 can be changed the same way?
More than likely or you will have to do it all through a single hole and not like this one...just depends
@@FordBossMe Got ya'. How many miles between changes do you recommended?
@@mytrainhobby5318 30k max
@@FordBossMe Great, thanks. The local shop I get my service at didn't want to do it last year at 31K, said it was too soon.