Automatic transmission fluid and filter change
1. At the specified intervals, the transmission fluid should be drained and replaced. Since the fluid will remain hot long after driving, perform this procedure only after the engine has cooled down completely.
2. Before beginning work, purchase the specified transmission fluid (see Recommended lubricants and fluids in this Chapter’s Specifications) and a new filter and pan gasket.
3. Other tools necessary for this job include a floor jack, jack stands to support the vehicle in a raised position, a drain pan capable of holding at least eight quarts, newspapers and clean rags.
4. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the front portion of the exhaust system if it will interfere with removal of the transmission fluid pan.
5. Place the drain pan underneath the transmission pan. Remove the bolts from three sides of the pan (see illustration), then loosen the remaining bolts and allow the pan to drop down to drain the fluid. Once most of the fluid has been drained, remove the bolts and carefully lower the pan and drain the rest of the fluid.
28.5 Remove the bolts from three sides and allow the pan to drain from the front of the pan — 6-speed models shown, 8-speed models similar
6. Remove the transmission pan mounting bolts, then carefully pry the transmission pan loose with a screwdriver.
Warning: There will still be some transmission fluid in the pan.
7. Carefully clean the gasket surface of the transmission to remove all traces of the old gasket and sealant.
8. Clean the pan with solvent and dry it with compressed air, if available.
Note: Some models are equipped with magnets in the transmission pan to catch metal debris. Clean the magnet thoroughly. A small amount of metal material is normal at the magnet. If there is considerable debris, consult a dealer or transmission specialist.
9. Remove the filter from the valve body inside the transmission (see illustration).
28.9 Remove the filter from the transmission by pulling it straight down
10. Install a new seal and filter (see illustrations)
28.10a Use a seal puller and slide hammer to remove the transmission filter seal
28.10b Install the new seal into its bore with a hammer and seal driver
11. Make sure the gasket surface on the transmission pan is clean, then install a new gasket on the pan (see illustration). Put the pan in place against the transmission and install all of the bolts. Working around the pan, tighten each bolt a little at a time to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.
28.11 Clean the transmission pan, position the magnet back in place, and install the new pan gasket
12. Add new fluid to the transmission (see Automatic transmission fluid level check). Check the specifications in this Chapter for the proper quantity.
13. With the transmission in Park and the parking brake set, run the engine at a fast idle, but don’t race it.
14. Move the gear selector through each range and back to Park, then let the engine idle. Check the fluid level; it will probably be low at this point. Add enough fluid to bring the level to the proper mark on the dipstick. Be careful not to overfill.
15. Check under the vehicle for leaks during the first few trips. Check the fluid level again when the transmission is hot (see Automatic transmission fluid level check).
16. The old fluid drained from the transmission cannot be reused in its present state and should be disposed of. Check with your local auto parts store, disposal facility or environmental agency to see if they will accept the fluid for recycling. After the fluid has cooled it can be drained into a container (capped plastic jugs, topped bottles, milk cartons, etc.) for transport to one of these disposal sites. Don’t dispose of the fluid by pouring it on the ground or down a drain!