A Mechanic's Guide to the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon Transmission Filter Kit
Keep your Talon's 4-speed automatic shifting correctly by choosing the right filter and gasket.
- Pay close attention to gasket quality to prevent leaks; many aftermarket gaskets are too soft and fail prematurely.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Wix and Beck Arnley are reliable choices, while OEM is often preferred for its superior gasket and filter design.
- Changing the filter and fluid every 30,000 miles is cheap insurance against major transmission failure.
- Symptoms like harsh shifting, whining, or leaks should be addressed immediately to prevent severe damage.
Symptoms of a Clogged Transmission Filter
When your Talon's transmission filter gets clogged, it restricts fluid flow. This can starve the transmission of the pressure it needs to operate correctly. Look out for these common signs:
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting: The car may hesitate before going into gear, or shifts might feel jerky and abrupt.
- Whining or Rattling Noises: A whining sound that changes with engine RPM can indicate the transmission pump is struggling to pull fluid through a clogged filter. Rattling may occur if the filter itself has come loose or broken apart.
- Fluid Leaks: A clogged filter can increase pressure inside the transmission, potentially forcing fluid past seals and gaskets. A common failure point is the pan gasket itself.
- Burning Smell: Restricted fluid flow can cause the transmission to run hotter than normal, burning the fluid and creating a distinct acrid smell.
- Contaminated Fluid: When you check the dipstick, the fluid may look dark brown or black instead of its usual bright red, and it might have a burnt odor.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Transmission Kit
For the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon, several aftermarket brands are available. While they all serve the same basic function, there are differences in quality, especially concerning the included pan gasket.
A Warning About Gaskets
The single most common complaint from DSM owners is leaking from cheap aftermarket pan gaskets. Many kits come with soft rubber gaskets that can squeeze out from between the pan and the transmission case before the bolts are properly tightened. This leads to persistent leaks. Investing in a kit with a better gasket or buying an OEM gasket separately is highly recommended.
Brand Quality Tiers
Based on owner experiences and brand reputation, here’s how the available brands generally stack up for your Talon:
- Premium Aftermarket (Wix, Beck Arnley): These brands are well-regarded in the DSM community. Wix is a dedicated filter manufacturer known for quality construction. Beck Arnley focuses on meeting or exceeding OE specifications for import vehicles, often by sourcing high-quality components. Kits from these brands are a solid choice for a reliable repair.
- Mid-Grade Aftermarket (ATP): ATP specializes in transmission parts and is a popular choice. Their kits are generally considered reliable, and some users have praised the quality of their gaskets, which can sometimes be better than the basic gaskets in other kits.
- Standard Aftermarket (Pioneer Cable, Premium Guard): These brands typically offer a more budget-friendly option. While the filter may function adequately, pay close attention to the included gasket. If it feels overly soft or flimsy, consider sourcing a higher-quality gasket separately to avoid leaks.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Filter Design
Eagle Talon and other DSM enthusiasts have noted that the original Mitsubishi (OEM) filter is physically larger than most aftermarket options. Some believe this larger size and specific design helps prevent fluid starvation under hard acceleration. If you are performance-oriented, using a genuine OEM filter (part number MD735572) might be worth the extra cost.
Cost of Replacing Your Transmission Filter Kit
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Kit | $17 - $57 |
| New OEM Filter & Gasket | $50 - $90 |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $250 |
Cost estimates are for parts and labor and may vary by location and vehicle condition. The service always includes replacing a portion of the transmission fluid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my Talon's transmission filter?
A good rule of thumb for these cars is to change the transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. This preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid transmission problems.
Is the OEM filter really better than aftermarket?
For most daily driving, a quality aftermarket filter from a brand like Wix or Beck Arnley is perfectly fine. However, the OEM filter is larger and designed differently, which some performance drivers prefer to ensure optimal fluid flow. The biggest advantage of buying OEM is often the high-quality gasket that comes with it.
What kind of gasket is best: rubber or cork?
This is a topic of debate. The main issue is the quality, not the material. Some aftermarket rubber gaskets are too soft and cause leaks. High-quality, firm rubber gaskets or cork gaskets have both been used successfully. The key is to ensure the bolts can be torqued properly without the gasket deforming and squeezing out.
Can I just change the fluid without the filter?
While you can, it's not recommended. The filter holds trapped contaminants, and leaving a dirty filter in place with fresh fluid is counterproductive. Since changing the filter requires dropping the transmission pan, it's the perfect time to do both jobs at once.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD735572
Kit includes a pan filter and pan gasket. Fits the 4-speed automatic transmission used in 1990-1998 Eagle Talons. Note that filter designs and gasket shapes may vary between 1G (1990-94) and 2G (1995-98) models.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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