There is a screen filter inside the transmission, but yes you must rip apart the tranny to get to it. A good thing to add may be the inline filter, i think it's made by FilterTek, and it's approved by Ford. Though if you get changes regulary, then you shouldn't need it. Don't get a Power Flush on a tranny that has any decent amount of miles on it. I suggest using Mobil1 ATF, yes it's expensive, but it will help the transmission, I noticed I can get into gear easier now.