Parts for your 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero-Transmission filter

1991 Mitsubishi Pajero transmission filter — what it does and how to look after it

Based on Mitsubishi’s factory Workshop Manual for the NH/NJ Pajero (A/T section) and the Aisin‑Warner 03‑72LE/V4AW2 family transmission service literature, the 1991 Pajero fitted with an automatic transmission uses an internal oil strainer (commonly called a transmission filter) inside the sump. Mitsubishi’s ASA/CAPS parts catalogue also lists the A/T oil strainer and pan gasket for these models. Manual gearboxes of the same era don’t use a transmission filter.

For owners with the auto, the transmission filter’s job is simple but critical: it screens out clutch material, fine metal and other bits so the ATF can keep the valve body, pump and clutches happy. Clean fluid and a clear strainer help the gearbox shift smoothly, last longer and stay cooler — handy whether it’s carting the family, towing the boat, or tackling a long Kiwi gravel road.

Servicing is straightforward and worth doing as preventive maintenance. As part of a pan-drop service, the sump comes off, the strainer is replaced (or cleaned if it’s the mesh type and specified as reusable), the pan magnet is wiped, and the pan gasket is renewed before refilling with the correct ATF. Always use the fluid specified in the owner’s handbook for the exact transmission — for many 1991 autos that’s a Dexron‑spec ATF — and set the level hot, in neutral, on level ground.

• Typical interval: every 60,000–80,000 km or 4–5 years for a filter and pan service, sooner if towing, off‑roading, or seeing high temps.
• Tell‑tales it’s due: delayed engagement, shudder on take‑off, flare or harsh shifts, dark or burnt‑smelling ATF, or a pan magnet loaded with fuzz.
• Good add‑ons: check cooler lines, flush the external cooler, and inspect the selector cable and mounts while you’re under there.

If your 1991 Pajero is a manual, there’s no transmission filter by design. The manual box relies on gear oil changes at sensible intervals, no strainer is fitted or required.

Popular questions

Does a 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero have a transmission filter?
Yes, if it’s an automatic. The 1991 auto uses an internal oil strainer in the sump, as shown in Mitsubishi’s A/T workshop documentation. Manual versions don’t use a filter.

How often should the transmission filter be replaced on a 1991 Pajero?
As a rule of thumb, every 60,000–80,000 km or 4–5 years with a pan drop and fresh ATF, sooner if it tows or works hard. Always follow the service schedule in the owner’s handbook.

Can the Pajero’s transmission filter be cleaned instead of replaced?
Some 1991 autos have a mesh strainer that can be cleaned, but many owners opt to replace it when accessible. Follow the workshop manual for your exact gearbox and condition of the strainer.