How to Replace a Transmission Filter
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You must check and replace the transmission filter if you find the that the radiator is not performing well. A failure to replace the filter will make for erratic transmission shifts and less than optimal performance. It is advised to replace the filter every two years or once the car has been driven 30,000 miles.
Tools Required:
- New transmission filter
- New transmission pan gasket
- Transmission drain pan
- 1/4-inch drive ratchet and socket set
- Wheel bearing grease
- Flat scrapers
- Latex or rubber gloves
- Clean rags
- Cleaning solvent
- 3M Weather-strip cement
Step 1. Jack the Car Up
Park the vehicle on a solid level area.
Step 2. Find Transmission Dip Stick
Open the hood and locate the transmission dip stick. Generally, it is red, orange or yellow.
Step 3. Remove Nuts and Bolts
Place a drip or drain pan beneath the transmission and locate the transmission drain plug. It will either be on the case or in the transmission pan itself. Remove the transmission drain plug. If your vehicle don't have one, remove two of the transmission pan bolts, which can be found on either side. Let the fluid begin to drain out.
Remove the two bolts on one side of the pan (fluid will continue run from these as well) and slowly begin to loosen the remaining two bolts on the opposite side of the pan. Gently push the pan towards the engine and totally remove the bolts. Gently lower the pan and tip it into the floor drip pan.
Step 4. Remove Gasket
Observe the contents in your floor pan, paying attention to any large chunks of material that come from the transmission. Do not be concerned if there is a light dust present. Remove the original gasket from the pan and surface of the transmission using the scraper. Most vehicles have a small magnet attached to the transmission pan to gather steel dust. Clean this from the magnet.
Step 5. Apply Cement
Dry the pan and place cement all along the mating surface of the pan, including around the bolt holes. Position the new gasket onto the cement and leave it in a safe place to dry.
Step 6. Remove Transmission Filter
Remove the mounting bolts from the original transmission filter and remove the unit. Discard by placing in a sealable bag or container. Leave the vehicle for upwards of an hour to allow the remainder of the transmission fluid to drain completely.
Step 7. Install New Filter
Install the new filter. Apply sufficient grease to the top of the pan gasket and replace it. Replace all bolts and tighten firmly, but do not over tighten (ideally, 15 to 20 inch pounds).
Step 8. Add Transmission Fluid
Lower the vehicle to the floor. Add two quarts of transmission fluid and start the engine. Allow the vehicle to reach optimal operating temperature and check the fluid level. Pour in additional fluid if needed at this point. Sit in the driver's seat and move the gears from the reverse position to drive a number of times. Recheck the fluid level. Add fluid again if it is below the "Full" mark.
Step 9. Test the Fluid Level
Take the vehicle onto the road and drive for a number of miles. Recheck the fluid level. Adjust for the final time if necessary. Check that there are no leaks, and your transmission service is complete.
