1999 trans fluid brownish

My 4runner has 128k on it and I got the pink milkshake so had to replace my transmission with a used one. I ended up finding one with 170k off a runner with a rotted out frame. Had it installed and fluid first day I got it back fluid was pretty much brand new looking. Checked it after about a week of highway driving and it’s a little brownish red. I attached a photo. Is that normal for a used trans to go brown so quick?? Maybe it had residual fluid in there?? It’s shifting smooth like butter so Idk if should be worried or not

 

I would watch carefully...usually when you have new red transmission fluid turning brown it's an indication of high temperature...I would have the torque converter and transmission flushed completely and put a new transmission filter...I know it cost a few bucks but you know then you have a clean slate and if it starts turning brown again you probably have some bands and clutches that were previously ran pretty hard...maybe off road and in binding conditions causing a lot of friction and heat. Your doing the right thing by watching...does the dip stick smell burnt when you check the fluid?

 

Thanks for your reply! And that’s what’s confusing me it doesn’t smell burnt at all and shifts really smooth with no hesitation or issue.

 

Do you suggest I get the fluid changed immediately? Or let this fluid run for awhile considering it was just put in?

 

So you have changed the fluid but is there a filter...you may be right...it might be residual debris from the old filter and torque converter...it doesn't mean the transmission wasn't cranked out from off road use...but Toyota makes a killer transmission and probably one of the best in the market...just get it cleaned out completely and replace the filter...any remaining debris is abrasive and could cause more wear...your still on the right track...if the new transmission fluid doesn't smell burnt it seems pretty clear it's from previous debris.

 

thanks brotha I’ll have it checked out and changed. I’ll run it awhile longer after getting the fluid and filter changed and post an update

 

Yep...change it again and throw away all of the new you just put in...yep...complete flush with new again filter and fluid...you will save a ton of money long term and have a more predictable and reliable transmission...I am hoping someone else will agree. I am really weird about preserving what I have at the costs of disposable fluids and filters...transmission are not disposable from an expense stand point.

 

Complete agree, I would be devastated if I have to install another transmission this one costed me $2100.