I am trying to remove/replace the sealing sleeve along with pan and filter on a 2004 6HP26 trans and am having no luck. I have read there is a release located somewhere under the pan but I don't know what I'm looking for. Anyone have some information on this?

 

I think there are pictures? It's inside, you need the pan off, I gather.

 

If you look down through these Google pics some of them show channels on one end.. https://www.google.com/search?q=6hp2...ih=950#imgrc=_

 

Here is the info you need.DO NOT TWIST THE SLEEVE!

 

Is it really necessary to replace the sleeve when doing a fluid and filter change?

 

No it's not but you can't replace the sleeve without dropping the pan so if it leaks later...........

 

Agreed. If you decide to drop the pan, replace the factory sleeve. The redesigned ones seal better and should have a much lower failure rate....

 

Also agree. Best preventative maintenance step indeed with the pan off...