Changing the transmission fluid in 2002 Chevy Suburban with high mileage?

[Superwoman22]

I have a 2002 Chevy Suburban 1500 2 wheel drive. The truck has over 200,000 miles. I was told by one mechanic that I needed to flush the fluid only and not to open up the transmission because of the high mileage. I was told by another mechanic that changing the fluid and filter would be fine and would not present a problem regardless of the mileage. If you are familiar with this, what is your take on this? If I don't need to open up the transmision, I can drain the fluid myself and put new in, so I want to get a heads up about it so I know what direction to go in. Thanks in advance!

 

[Niknak]

I am a 11 yr master mechanic and have worked in both a transmission shop and a automotive shop and they both have different takes on this. I myself believe a power trans flush is much better because it removes all fluid from the vehicle not just whats in the pan. it also removes all the fluid in the converter. if you remove the pan and drain it like that you are getting out about 6 qrts of fluid and a flush you remove about 16-20 qts depending upon application. plus they run a cleaner and additive to it. just make sure you are dealing with an a.s.e. certified mechanic and ask to see their credentials they wont mind. hope I can help!