This procedure covers removal and replacement of the transmission pan gasket on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission, including fluid drain and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — Motorcraft RT-1229 or equivalent for 10R80
• Transmission filter (internal, if servicing) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF — 6 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow transmission to cool completely if vehicle was recently operated
3. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
4. Position drain pan underneath transmission pan area
5. Have all replacement parts and fluids ready before beginning disassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate and access transmission pan
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the transmission pan on the bottom of the transmission housing. Remove any skid plates or protective covers that may obstruct access to the pan bolts. The pan is rectangular and held by 17 bolts around the perimeter.
2. 2

   Loosen transmission pan bolts
   Starting at one rear corner, loosen all transmission pan bolts approximately 2-3 turns in a criss-cross pattern. Do not fully remove bolts yet. This allows the pan to drop slightly and begin draining fluid in a controlled manner. Be prepared for fluid to begin seeping out.
3. 3

   Drain transmission fluid
   Once fluid begins draining from the loosened pan, carefully remove all but two bolts at opposite corners (front and rear). Allow the pan to tilt and drain fluid into the catch pan. This will take several minutes. When flow slows significantly, remove the final two bolts while supporting the pan to prevent it from falling.
4. 4

   Remove transmission pan
   Carefully lower the transmission pan, being aware that residual fluid will still be present. Tilt the pan to pour remaining fluid into the drain pan. Set the pan aside on a clean surface. Inspect the fluid for metal particles or debris which may indicate internal transmission wear.
5. 5

   Inspect and clean transmission interior
   Inspect the internal transmission filter and magnet (if equipped). Remove any accumulated metal particles from the magnet using a shop towel. If the internal filter is being replaced, carefully remove the old filter per manufacturer instructions. Clean the magnet thoroughly before reassembly.
6. 6

   Remove old gasket material
   Using a plastic or brass gasket scraper, carefully remove all old gasket material from both the transmission pan mating surface and the transmission housing surface. Take care not to gouge or scratch the aluminum surfaces. Clean both surfaces thoroughly with brake cleaner and allow to dry completely. Inspect for any damage or warping.
7. 7

   Prepare transmission pan for installation
   Clean the inside of the transmission pan thoroughly, removing all old fluid and debris. Inspect the pan for cracks or damage. Position the new gasket on the pan, ensuring all bolt holes align properly. Most gaskets are self-adhering and will stick to the pan surface.
8. 8

   Install transmission pan
   Carefully raise the transmission pan with new gasket into position, aligning all bolt holes. Start all pan bolts by hand, threading them in a few turns to ensure proper alignment. Do not cross-thread the bolts into the aluminum transmission housing.
   Torque spec

   Pan Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Torque transmission pan bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the transmission pan bolts to specification in a criss-cross pattern, starting from the center and working outward. Make multiple passes, gradually increasing torque until all bolts reach final specification. This ensures even gasket compression and prevents leaks.
   Torque spec

   Pan Bolts19 Nm (14 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Refill transmission with fluid
    Locate the transmission fill plug on the driver's side of the transmission case (accessible from underneath). Remove the fill plug. Using a funnel with long hose or transmission fluid pump, add approximately 5-6 quarts of Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF through the fill hole. Add fluid slowly to avoid overfilling.
11. 11

    Check fluid level (cold)
    With the transmission still cold, the fluid level should be visible just below the fill plug hole. Install the fill plug finger-tight for now. Lower the vehicle to the ground and start the engine.
12. 12

    Verify fluid level at operating temperature
    With the engine running, cycle through all gear positions (P-R-N-D and back to P), pausing 2-3 seconds in each position. Allow transmission to reach operating temperature (approximately 10 minutes of idling or short test drive). Raise vehicle again and remove fill plug. At operating temperature (160-180°F), fluid should drip slowly from fill hole. Add fluid if necessary until slow drip is achieved. Install fill plug and torque to specification if applicable, or tighten securely.
    ⚠Transmission fluid will be hot during this step. Use caution when removing fill plug.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any skid plates or protective covers removed during disassembly
2. Lower vehicle completely to ground and remove jack stands
3. Dispose of used transmission fluid properly at a recycling center or auto parts store

Verification

• Check underneath vehicle for any fluid leaks around transmission pan after reaching operating temperature
• Take a short test drive and verify smooth transmission operation through all gears
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
• Inspect pan bolt area again after 50-100 miles of driving for any seepage or leaks
• Monitor transmission performance over the next few days to ensure proper shifting and no slippage

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