What the PPE double deep spin-on filter does

The PPE double deep spin-on transmission filter (part number 128059150) is an aftermarket replacement filter designed for Duramax diesel engines, primarily in Chevrolet and GMC trucks. It replaces the factory transmission filter with a larger capacity unit that holds more fluid and traps more contaminants before they circulate through your transmission.

The "double deep" design means the filter element is taller and thicker than the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) filter, giving it roughly double the surface area. This larger size lets the filter work longer between changes and reduces the pressure drop across the filter, which can help transmission fluid flow more smoothly and keep operating temperatures slightly lower during towing or heavy use.

PPE is an aftermarket manufacturer specializing in diesel engine and transmission upgrades. This particular filter is a direct spin-on replacement, meaning you unscrew the old filter and screw the new one on by hand — no internal cartridge to remove or reinstall.

Key Takeaways

  • The PPE double deep filter holds roughly twice the dirt and debris as the factory filter, extending the time between filter changes.
  • Installation requires only an oil filter wrench and takes about 15 minutes; you drain a small amount of transmission fluid when you remove the old filter.
  • This filter is designed for Duramax diesel trucks and will not fit other engine types without adapter modifications.
  • Changing the transmission filter every 50,000 to 100,000 miles (depending on driving conditions) helps prevent transmission wear and overheating.
  • You will need fresh transmission fluid to top off the pan after installation, and the amount depends on whether you also drop the pan to change the internal filter.

Which trucks use this filter and what it replaces

The PPE 128059150 is built for Duramax-equipped Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, typically model years 2001 through 2016 with the Allison 1000 or Allison 2000 automatic transmission. Before ordering, confirm your truck's engine (6.6L Duramax diesel) and transmission type, because this filter will not fit gasoline engines or other transmission brands.

It replaces the factory spin-on filter that Chevrolet and GMC use from the factory. The OEM filter is smaller and fills up faster, especially if you tow regularly or drive in dusty conditions. The PPE version is a direct bolt-on — the mounting location and thread size are identical, so no brackets or adapters are needed for a standard installation.

If your truck has been modified with a transmission cooler or upgraded oil cooler, the PPE filter will still work, but you may want to verify clearance in your engine bay before installation, since the taller filter body can sit closer to other components.

How to install the PPE double deep filter yourself

Installation is a straightforward task that takes about 15 minutes and requires only basic tools: an oil filter wrench (the same tool you use for engine oil filters), a drain pan, and a rag. You do not need to lift the truck or remove any major components.

Step 1: Warm up the transmission fluid. Run the engine for a few minutes so the fluid reaches operating temperature. Warm fluid drains faster and more completely. Then turn the engine off and let it cool for two to three minutes — hot fluid can burn your hands.

Step 2: Locate the filter. On most Duramax trucks, the spin-on transmission filter is mounted on the driver's side of the engine, near the transmission bell housing. Consult your truck's service manual or a Duramax forum post for the exact location on your model year, since it can vary slightly.

Step 3: Position the drain pan. Place a drain pan underneath the filter to catch the fluid that spills when you remove it. Transmission fluid stains and is slippery, so use a pan large enough to hold at least two quarts.

Step 4: Remove the old filter. Use the oil filter wrench to unscrew the old filter by turning it counterclockwise. Once it is loose enough to turn by hand, finish unscrewing it slowly and carefully — fluid will still drip out. Set the old filter aside in the drain pan.

Step 5: Clean the mounting surface. Wipe the filter mounting boss (the threaded post where the filter screws on) with a clean rag to remove any dirt or old fluid. A clean surface helps the new filter seal properly.

Step 6: Install the new filter. Hand-thread the new PPE filter onto the mounting boss. Once the rubber gasket on the filter base makes contact with the mounting surface, tighten it by hand an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use the wrench to tighten — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

Step 7: Top off the transmission fluid. Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds, then turn it off. Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick or sight glass (depending on your truck model). Add Duramax-approved transmission fluid (usually Allison TES-295 or equivalent) until the level reaches the full mark. Do not overfill.

Step 8: Check for leaks. Let the truck sit for five minutes, then inspect around the new filter for any drips. If you see fluid leaking from the filter base, the gasket may not be seated correctly — turn off the engine, let it cool, and tighten the filter by hand an additional quarter turn.

When to replace the filter and what fluid to use

Most manufacturers recommend changing the transmission filter every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. If you tow regularly, drive in dusty environments, or operate the truck in stop-and-go city traffic, change it every 50,000 miles. If you drive mostly highway miles with light loads, you can extend it to 100,000 miles.

Some Duramax owners change the filter more frequently — every 30,000 to 40,000 miles — as preventive maintenance, especially if they tow heavy loads or have modified the transmission with a larger cooler. More frequent changes cost more in fluid and labor but reduce the risk of transmission overheating or debris buildup.

Use only transmission fluid approved for the Allison 1000 or Allison 2000 transmission in your truck. The most common choice is Allison TES-295, which is the factory specification. Some aftermarket fluids meet this standard and cost less, but always verify the bottle label before pouring. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and cause shifting problems.

A spin-on filter change alone requires about one quart of fluid to top off the pan. If you also drop the transmission pan to change the internal filter cartridge at the same time, you will need three to five quarts total, depending on how much fluid drains from the pan and cooler lines.

Difference between spin-on filter and full transmission service

Changing the spin-on filter (like the PPE 128059150) is not the same as a full transmission fluid and filter service. A spin-on filter change removes only the external filter and tops off the fluid level — it does not drain the transmission pan or replace the internal filter cartridge.

A full transmission service involves dropping the pan, replacing both the spin-on filter and the internal cartridge filter, draining old fluid from the pan and cooler lines, and refilling with fresh fluid. This process removes significantly more old fluid and contaminants but takes longer and costs more.

Many Duramax owners do a spin-on filter change every 50,000 miles and a full service (pan drop plus internal filter) every 100,000 to 150,000 miles. This hybrid approach balances cost and maintenance — you keep the transmission cleaner than spin-on changes alone, but you do not do a full service every time.

Common installation mistakes and how to avoid them

The most frequent error is over-tightening the new filter. The rubber gasket on the filter base is designed to seal with hand-tightening plus a three-quarter turn. If you use a wrench to tighten further, you compress the gasket too much, and it will leak when the transmission heats up and expands. Hand-tight is correct — trust it.

Another common mistake is forgetting to top off the transmission fluid after installation. The spin-on filter holds about one quart of fluid, so if you do not add fluid back, the level will drop below the minimum mark. Low fluid causes the transmission to overheat and shift poorly. Always check the level after the engine has run for 30 seconds and add fluid if needed.

Some owners install the PPE filter on a truck with a different transmission type (such as a 4L80E or 4L60E in an older truck) and then wonder why it does not fit. Verify your transmission model before ordering — the part number is specific to Allison transmissions in Duramax trucks.

Where to buy and what to expect for cost

The PPE double deep spin-on filter (128059150) is available from diesel-focused retailers, online marketplaces, and some general automotive suppliers. Prices vary but typically range from $40 to $80 for the filter alone, depending on the retailer and whether you buy it as part of a bundle with fluid.

If you have the filter installed at a shop, labor usually runs $75 to $150 on top of the filter cost, depending on your location and the shop's hourly rate. A full transmission service (pan drop plus internal filter) costs significantly more — typically $300 to $600 in labor alone — so many owners do the spin-on filter change themselves to save money.

Transmission fluid costs vary by brand and quantity. A quart of Allison TES-295 runs roughly $8 to $15 per quart at most retailers. If you need five quarts for a full service, budget $40 to $75 for fluid alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install this filter without dropping the transmission pan?

Yes. The PPE 128059150 is a spin-on filter that screws onto the outside of the transmission — you do not need to remove the pan or any internal components. A spin-on change takes about 15 minutes. If you want to replace the internal cartridge filter at the same time, you will need to drop the pan, which adds another hour or two of work.

How much transmission fluid do I need to buy?

For a spin-on filter change alone, buy at least two quarts of Allison TES-295 transmission fluid. You will use roughly one quart to top off the pan after installation, and it is wise to have extra on hand in case the level needs adjustment after the truck runs. If you also drop the pan and change the internal filter, buy five quarts total.

What happens if I use the wrong transmission fluid?

Using fluid that does not meet Allison TES-295 specifications can damage transmission seals, cause rough shifting, and lead to overheating. Always check the bottle label before pouring. When in doubt, ask the retailer or consult your truck's owner manual to confirm the correct fluid type.

Do I need to reset anything after installing the new filter?

No. The PPE filter is a passive component — there are no electronic sensors, codes, or resets required. Install it, top off the fluid, and drive normally. The transmission will operate the same way it did before, just with cleaner fluid flowing through a larger filter.

Will this filter fit my truck if it has been lifted or modified?

The filter should fit in the standard location on most modified trucks, but clearance can be tight if you have added a larger cooler, intercooler, or other engine bay components. Before installation, visually inspect the space around the factory filter location to confirm the taller PPE filter will not contact anything. If clearance is questionable, measure the filter height (roughly 5 to 6 inches) and compare it to the available space.