Backflushing and Cleaning

NOTE: MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid is being replaced by MERCON V as a service fluid.


1. Raise and support the vehicle.

WARNING: THE ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM MUST BE SHUT OFF PRIOR TO HOISTING, JACKING OR TOWING AN AIR SUSPENSION VEHICLE. THIS CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED BY TURNING OFF THE AIR SUSPENSION SWITCH LOCATED IN THE RH KICK PANEL AREA. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN UNEXPECTED INFLATION OR DEFLATION OF THE AIR SPRINGS WHICH MAY RESULT IN SHIFTING OF THE VEHICLE DURING THESE OPERATIONS.





2. Disconnect the transmission fluid cooler tubes.





3. Connect the cleaner hoses.
(1) Attach the cleaner tank pressure line to the transmission fluid cooler return tube (upper tube on transmission).
(2) Attach the tank return hose to the fluid cooler inlet tube (lower tube on transmission).

NOTE: Connect two rubber hoses to the transmission end of the transmission fluid cooler tubes to aid in attaching the cleaner to the transmission fluid cooler tubes.

4. Turn on the solvent pump and allow the solvent to circulate for a minimum of five minutes.
- Cycle the pump switch ON and OFF to help dislodge contaminants in the cooling system.

NOTE: Use Torque Converter/Oil Cooler Cleaner to backflush the system.

5. Switch off the solvent pump.





6. Disconnect the solvent pressure hose from the transmission fluid cooler return tube.





7. Apply compressed air to the transmission fluid cooler return tube until all the solvent is removed.





8. Remove the rubber hose from the fluid cooler inlet tube.





9. Connect the transmission fluid cooler tubes.
10. Lower the vehicle.

NOTE: If equipped with air suspension, reactivate the system by turning ON the air suspension switch.

11. Fill transmission fluid to the specified level with Motorcraft MERCON or MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent meeting FORD specification. Check for proper transmission operation.