Magnefine inline AT filter

[mfisher1967]

It is fairly well known that Honda automatic transmissions do not have the greatest track record when it comes to reliability. Not all models have a transmission filter that can be easily replaced. Most have an internal filter that can only be replaced while the transmission is being rebuilt. Honda transmissions usually lack a pan as well.

While searching through various message boards I found out about the Magnefine inline transmission filter. This filter contains a magnet, filter element and a bypass valve. These filters are used by several automakers, such as Ford, and have been proven to extend a transmission's mean time between failure. Installation appears to be simple and the filter is generally replaced once yearly. I am considering installing one of these in my 2006 Pilot LX.

Does anyone know anything about the Magnefine filter? Has one of these been installed in a forum member's vehicle?

http://www.emergingent.com/subpage1Magnefine.htm

[FullSun]

Interestingly, I have not heard much about them on this forum, but if you go over to the Odyssey forums (www.odyclub.com) , there is a ton of information on them there. As a matter of fact, I'm putting one on my Odyssey this week. and I'll likely do the same to my Pilot later.

[jarizzo]

I don't have any experience with the Magnefine filter, but just reasoning through the evidence I'd be curious to find out how much the filter will drop the line pressure when new versus when it's got some gunk in it. How are you supposed to know when it needs to be replaced? There is already a filter and a magnet in the transmission, but I can see why one might want to supplement those with more capacity. I just worry that adding something to the system that wasn't there before could cause a problem, especially if there is a significant pressure drop across the filter.

John

[75blazer]

Originally posted by jarizzo
I don't have any experience with the Magnefine filter, but just reasoning through the evidence I'd be curious to find out how much the filter will drop the line pressure when new versus when it's got some gunk in it. How are you supposed to know when it needs to be replaced? There is already a filter and a magnet in the transmission, but I can see why one might want to supplement those with more capacity. I just worry that adding something to the system that wasn't there before could cause a problem, especially if there is a significant pressure drop across the filter.

John

I wondered the same things. It has a bypass that allows fluid through if it gets clogged and they claim that it doens't resctrict oil flow. I can't imagine that Ford would re-brand them and use them in their vehicles if they hadn't done extensive testing.

[Armystrong]

I have the Magnefine filter in my 2005 Honda Accord. There are pictures of it on DriveAccord. I made a thread for changing the ATF and showed the Filter there. Even on the Accord (4cyl), Honda does not mention anything about this external filter and any maintenance intervals for it. But there is an inline transmission filter. I haven't looked for one on my 05 Pilot but I guarantee you this will be the first thing I do tomorrow.
Take Care