Servicing Your Transmission

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated May 28, 2010)

Servicing a transmission is something that anyone can do. There are a total of 7 steps to this process, all of which you can accomplish at home.

Materials:

  • Transmission service kit
  • 6 quarts of transmission fluid
  • Funnel
  • Complete socket set
  • Funnel
  • Oil pan/bucket
  • Screwdriver
  • Repair manual
  • Cloths

Steps:

  1. Drain. Using the proper repair manual, locate the transmission fluid pan and drain plug on your vehicle. Loosen the plug with either a removal tool, or a screwdriver and socket set. Place an oil pan underneath it to catch the fluid before the plug is completely out.
  2. Remove. Remove the transmission pan mounting bolts and place them in one location so that you don't lose any of them.
  3. Inspect & Clean. Inspect the inside of the pan and clean it out. You want to remove the old gasket and replace it with a new one. You might need some gasket cement (which often comes with the servicing kit).
  4. Change & Reinstall. Remove the transmission filter. Often these are held in place with clips or bolts. Replace the old filter with the new one that came with servicing kit. Reinstall the transmission fluid pan.
  5. Refill & Check. Refill the transmission fluid. Use the funnel to ensure that you don't loose or spill any. After you have put some in, turn your engine on for a while to allow the fluid to heat up. Turn the engine off and check the fluid as you normally would. Also, as you are filling the fluid make sure there are no leaks from the area where you were just working.
  6. Clean up. Replace the drain plug and clean the area.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

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