ZF 63A fluid change..Quick question..

[mnm99]

Hey guys, I know this should be in trans section. I'm going to change the fluid in an hour or so and had a quick question. I already changed the fluid once, so I know about the filter and all. My question is, can I take the filter cover off before draining any fluid? Last time I sucked from the dip stick then pulled the cap. Just wondering.

 

[JVM225]

Hey guys, I know this should be in trans section. I'm going to change the fluid in an hour or so and had a quick question. I already changed the fluid once, so I know about the filter and all. My question is, can I take the filter cover off before draining any fluid? Last time I sucked from the dip stick then pulled the cap. Just wondering.

Not sure if yours are the same as mine, but I removed the filter cover and filter when I changed my fluids and pulled the old fluid out from there.
I was changing my filters anyway.
Once I got all I could out of the filter hole I removed the drain plugs and captured the last few ounces in a tin foil pan.
Next time I do it (probably next fall) I plan on replacing the drain plugs with Fumoto Drain Valves with some hoses attached to them and 3/4” female hose thread fittings on the other ends so in the future I can just connect my drain pump, open the valve and pull the old fluid out from the hose on each transmission.
When not in use, the hoses will be plugged, cleaned, rolled up and left in place under the transmissions.

 

[Spark600]

Not sure if yours are the same as mine, but I removed the filter cover and filter when I changed my fluids and pulled the old fluid out from there.
I was changing my filters anyway.
Once I got all I could out of the filter hole I removed the drain plugs and captured the last few ounces in a tin foil pan.
Next time I do it (probably next fall) I plan on replacing the drain plugs with Fumoto Drain Valves with some hoses attached to them and 3/4” female hose thread fittings on the other ends so in the future I can just connect my drain pump, open the valve and pull the old fluid out from the hose on each transmission.
When not in use, the hoses will be plugged, cleaned, rolled up and left in place under the transmissions.

I do the same on my old boat