Transmission Fluid Check/Replacement

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Filling your new transmission or changing the oil in your old transmission is essential for the longevity of your gear box. When installing a rebuilt transmission, it's a good idea to change the oil after 300 miles. This preventive measure removes the possibility of any debris that might be left in the transmission after assembly. After the initial break-in period, the oil level should be checked every 10,000 miles and changed every 30,000 miles.

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Check the Fluid Level

  1. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. The vehicle must be as level as possible to assure an accurate check.

  2. The oil filler plug is located on the left side of the transmission. Using a 17mm Allen/Hex head tool, remove the plug.

  3. Insert your finger in the hole; if the lubricant level is correct, it should reach the lower edge of the opening and be on your finger tip.

  4. If the transaxle needs more lubricant, use a lubricant pump to add more. Use SAE 80W90W hypoid gear oil. Add the gear oil slowly to prevent it from running back out of the hole prematurely. Stop filling the transaxle when the lubricant begins to run back out of the hole.

    5. Note: There is an inexpensive lubricant pump available that looks like this -

    Lubricant Pump

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    Note: Lacking a lubricant pump, you can easily rig up a system to add the gear oil by gravity. Get a piece of clear plastic tubing about 3/4-inch ID and attach a funnel onto one end. Have an assistant hold the funnel a few feet above the level of the transmission, or attach the funnel to something to hold it at this level. Run the other end of the tubing into the fill hole in the side of the transmission. Slowly add gear oil to the funnel until it begins to run back out of the hole.

     

    Dave's Transmission Fill Apparatus

    Dave says, "Look, Ma, no hands!
    I just pour the gear oil into the funnel and let it run!"

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  5. Install the plug and tighten it securely.

  6. Remove the jackstands and lower the vehicle.

  7. Drive the vehicle a short distance, then check for leaks.

 

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Change the Transaxle Fluid

  1. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands.

  2. Place a drain pan under the transaxle.

  3. Using a 17mm hex wrench, remove the drain plugs (there are two of them) and allow the lubricant to drain completely.

  4. Reinstall the drain plugs and tighten them securely.

  5. Using the 17mm hex wrench, remove the filler plug on the left side of the transaxle ahead of the drive axle.

  6. Using a lubricant pump (or a gravity rig as described above), slowly add gear oil until it begins to run out of the filler hole.

  7. Install the plug and tighten it securely.

  8. Remove the jackstands and lower the vehicle.

  9. Drive the vehicle a short distance, then check for leaks.

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Design by Erin