Transmission Filter Kit Guide for the 2007-2013 Itasca Impulse (Ford E-450 Chassis)
Keep your RV's heavy-duty Ford transmission shifting smoothly by understanding its unique filter needs.
- Your Itasca Impulse has a Ford E-450 chassis with a 5R110W transmission that requires two filters.
- Service the transmission every 30,000 miles, replacing both filters and using only MERCON LV fluid.
- Quality aftermarket kits from brands like Premium Guard are a cost-effective and reliable option for this service.
- Symptoms like harsh shifting or whining noises should be addressed immediately to prevent expensive transmission damage.
Understanding Your Impulse's Transmission
When you're shopping for a transmission filter for your 2007-2013 Itasca Impulse, you are actually shopping for a Ford E-450 part. These motorhomes use a Ford chassis and a specific heavy-duty 5-speed automatic transmission called the 5R110W TorqShift. This transmission has a unique two-filter system that requires regular service to handle the demands of RV life. Forgetting this service is a common cause of transmission problems.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Filter Kit
For a routine maintenance part like a transmission filter, you don't always need to pay dealership prices for an OEM-branded box. The most important factor is changing the filters and fluid at the correct interval. A quality aftermarket kit provides a reliable and cost-effective way to do this.
Brand Tiers:
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Premium Guard): Brands like Premium Guard offer complete kits that meet or exceed original specifications. They are a dependable choice for DIYers and independent shops, providing both the internal and external filters, along with a new pan gasket, for a complete service at a good value. Forum discussions and reviews show these are generally well-built filters for their price point.
- OEM (Motorcraft): Ford's own Motorcraft brand is the original part. It's a high-quality option, but you will often pay more for the name. The original Ford pan gasket is a very durable, reusable steel-and-silicone piece that some mechanics prefer to clean and reinstall if it's in good condition.
Pro Tip: The service interval is more important than the brand you choose. The Ford-recommended service interval for the 5R110W transmission is every 30,000 miles for fluid and both filters.
Estimated Part & Labor Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Kit (Premium Guard) | $40.12 - $73.24 |
| New OEM Kit (Motorcraft) | $60 - $100 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 |
Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
While no recalls specifically target the transmission filters for the 2007-2013 model years, several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) are relevant to transmission service:
- TSB SSM 51909: Ford has officially stated that MERCON LV transmission fluid is the correct replacement for the older MERCON SP fluid. It is backward compatible and can be mixed. Using the correct fluid is essential.
- TSB ASI-44534: Some owners of 2003-2014 E-Series vehicles may experience an intermittent clunking noise when shifting between Park, Reverse, or during a 2-3 upshift.
- TSB 16-0057: On some 2009 and later models, diagnostic trouble codes P0751, P0730, or P2700 could indicate an internal issue with the coast clutch assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I change the transmission filters on my Itasca Impulse?
Ford's severe service recommendation, which applies to motorhomes, is to replace the transmission fluid and both filters every 30,000 miles. Sticking to this schedule is the best way to ensure a long life for your transmission.
Do I need to replace both the internal and external filters?
Yes. Both filters serve different purposes and should be replaced at the same time to do the job correctly. The external filter is easy to access, but the internal filter requires removing the transmission pan. A complete kit includes both parts.
What kind of transmission fluid should I use?
You must use a fluid that meets Ford's MERCON LV specification. As noted in a technical service bulletin, MERCON LV has replaced the older MERCON SP fluid. Using the wrong type of fluid can cause severe transmission damage.
Can I reuse the transmission pan gasket?
The original Ford gasket is a high-quality, steel-core piece that is designed to be reusable if it is not damaged, cracked, or brittle. However, most aftermarket filter kits come with a new gasket, and it is often good practice to replace it, especially on an older vehicle, to prevent leaks.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: FT-144 3C3Z-7A098-AA FT-145 3C3P-7B155-BA
Fits Ford 5R110W TorqShift Automatic Transmission. Kit includes one internal pan filter and one external canister filter.
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.
- Itasca Impulse: