Only trans that really “needs” it are the 46/47/48 that see a lot of usage, especially towing.

The overdrive gearset will last a lot longer if run with 4.

Three speeds are one to one in 3rd so the planataries don’t see the same wear.

All the electronic transmissions - FWD 41/42 and RWD 45/545/RFE benefit from longer clutch and converter life because the clutches are not on/off clutches like the old transmissions.

As for flow on the plastic filters, the entrance to the filter is larger than the entrance in to the valve body.