A Guide to the Transmission Filter Kit for the 2000-2007 Damon Intruder
Your Damon Intruder's transmission health depends on choosing the right filter kit, which starts with knowing your chassis.
- You must first identify if your Intruder has a Ford F53 or Workhorse chassis to buy the correct filter kit.
- The Allison transmission (Workhorse chassis) has an easy-to-change external spin-on filter that requires frequent service.
- Changing the transmission fluid and filter every 30,000-50,000 miles is critical maintenance for an RV.
- Symptoms like harsh shifting or overheating should be addressed immediately to avoid catastrophic transmission failure.
Ford or Workhorse? The First Step for Your Intruder
Before you can choose a transmission filter kit for your 2000-2007 Damon Intruder, you must identify the chassis it was built on. During this period, Damon used two different platforms for its gas motorhomes: the Ford F53 chassis and the Workhorse W-series chassis. The transmission, and therefore the filter kit, is completely different between the two. You can often tell which chassis you have by the engine:
- Ford F53 Chassis: Typically equipped with a Ford 6.8L Triton V10 engine. These use a Ford 4R100 or 5R110W transmission 🎬 Watch this step-by-step DIY transmission service on a Ford F53 chassis, which has a filter located inside the transmission oil pan.
- Workhorse Chassis: Typically equipped with a GM 8.1L Vortec V8 engine. These are paired with a robust Allison 1000 series transmission. Allison transmissions have two filters: an easy-to-access external spin-on filter 🎬 See how to replace the spin-on filter on an Allison 1000 series and an internal filter inside the pan.
Pro Tip: The easiest way to confirm your chassis is by using a VIN decoder online or checking the manufacturer's label, often found on the wall next to the driver's seat.
Symptoms of a Clogged Transmission Filter
A dirty or clogged transmission filter can starve the transmission of fluid, leading to serious problems. Watch for these warning signs:
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting: The vehicle may hesitate before going into gear, or shifts may feel rough and jerky.
- Grinding or Whining Noises: Unusual noises from the transmission area, especially during gear changes, can indicate a lack of lubrication.
- Transmission Overheating: A clogged filter restricts fluid flow, causing the transmission to run hotter than normal, which can break down the fluid and damage seals.
- Slipping Out of Gear: The transmission may unexpectedly slip into neutral while driving.
- Dark or Burnt Fluid: Clean transmission fluid is typically bright red. If you check the dipstick and the fluid is dark brown or smells burnt, it's a sign of old fluid and potential internal wear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For the 2000-2007 Damon Intruder, aftermarket transmission filter kits offer a good balance of quality and value. The key is ensuring you buy the correct kit for your specific transmission.
Premium Guard Transmission Filter Kits
Premium Guard is a widely available aftermarket brand. Their kits are known for providing an OE-style fit. They typically include a high-quality NBR rubber pan gasket that has fitted screw holes, which helps hold bolts in place and makes installation easier. While some users feel they are not quite at the same level as an OEM Allison filter, they are considered a reliable choice for regular maintenance intervals and are well-constructed.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
For the Allison transmission on a Workhorse chassis, many owners prefer to use a genuine Allison-branded external spin-on filter due to its proven quality. For the internal pan filter on either the Allison or Ford transmission, a quality aftermarket kit like Premium Guard is a perfectly acceptable service part. The most important factor is performing the service on time, as even the best filter can't help if it's clogged.
Estimated Cost for Transmission Filter Replacement
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Kit (Premium Guard) | $46.08 - $73.24 |
| New OEM Kit | $80 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (Pan Drop Service) | $150 - $300 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I change my transmission filter?
For automatic transmissions under heavy use like in an RV, a good interval is every 30,000 to 50,000 miles for a full fluid and filter change. If you have the Workhorse chassis with the Allison transmission, it is highly recommended to change the external spin-on filter much more frequently, such as every other oil change (around 10,000-15,000 miles).
🎬 Watch this tutorial on changing fluid and filters on an Allison transmissionCan I just change the filter without changing the fluid?
For transmissions with an internal filter (Ford F53 and the internal Allison filter), you must drain the fluid to remove the pan and access the filter, so you will be changing the fluid anyway. For the Allison's external spin-on filter, you can change it with minimal fluid loss, but it's best done as part of a regular fluid maintenance schedule.
What kind of transmission fluid does my Damon Intruder need?
This depends entirely on your transmission. Ford and Allison transmissions use different fluids. For an Allison 1000, a TES-668 compatible synthetic fluid like Castrol TranSynd 668 is recommended. For Ford transmissions like the 4R100, you would use a fluid meeting the MERCON V specification. Always check your owner's manual or a service guide for the exact fluid specification for your vehicle's model year.
Were there any recalls for the transmission on the 2000-2007 Damon Intruder?
No specific safety recalls were found from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the transmission, chassis, or transmission filter system on the 2000-2007 Damon Intruder. Recalls were issued for other items like refrigerators and LP tank clearance.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Chassis and transmission will vary. Common configurations include: Ford F53 Chassis with 4R100 or 5R110W transmission (internal pan filter) OR Workhorse W-Series Chassis with Allison 1000 transmission (internal pan filter and external spin-on filter). Always confirm your specific configuration before ordering parts.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Damon Intruder: