Edited by staff

 

The function of the transmission "screen" in an AW4 is to prevent debris getting into the valve body should there be a catastrophic failure.
There is nowhere in any Jeep publications a recommended interval for changing that screen except at overhaul.

Here's something to read: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/tra...2/#post3203079

 

Thanks for chiming in Pete

 

I can only think of a few posts where someone said the filter was actually clogged up with clutch material, and they were also experiencing a lot of shifting problems indicative of badly worn clutches and poor pressure.

As mentioned, it's just a fine metal screen and you're likely to have significant symptoms and other damage if it's plugged up. Personally, I wouldn't drop the pan just to change out the filter as preventative maintenance. Too much work for questionable benefit. But I won't disagree if someone wants to go the extra mile. I usually recommend saving the money and just flushing it with some brake cleaner if you're in there doing the solenoids. I usually warn about not over tightening the pan screws (7 ft*lbs only).

 

Just my $.02. If I buy a vehicle that is not brand new, I change all the fluids when I get it home. Something like the trans, I may even have it professionally done. It is just me and I don't care what the former owner says. It is not his or her vehicle anymore.

 

Good advice. As Gregory House said, "Everybody lies", and you don't truly know the maintenance history. At least check the engine oil, diffs, xfer case, and coolant and change if they don't look fresh. Hardly anyone changes those on schedule. Change the trans fluid because if it did actually get changed, it might have been with ATF4+. Especially if the dealer did it.

 

On anything I have ever owned, I cycle the ATF fluid every 20-25 k miles....pull the plug on the transmission pan, drain about 3 qts & refill with the same amount...I avoid dropping the pan....thepotential is to great for a pan leak....