Put on that old T-shirt with the has-been rock band on it and slide on under so you can change your transmission fluid. We're going to show you how to drain the old oil, and how to install a drain plug if your tranny pan lacks one. The truck we worked on had just been rescued from the want ads, so we didn't know what we'd find--no fluid or fluid that desperately needed to be changed.
To do the drain, you'll need a screw-driver, a socket and wrench set, a new filter, and a pan to catch the oil. You might also need a new gasket. If you're adding a plug, you'll need a plug kit, a drill, and a file.
First, put your truck on jackstands...
First, put your truck on jackstands for easier access to the transmission. To remove the pan, unscrew all but four bolts--leave one at each corner, then slowly loosen the remaining bolts and tilt the pan so the fluid can drain out.
After it's finished oozing,...
After it's finished oozing, remove the last bolts. The unbelievable mess ought to be enough to convince you to add a drain plug. Next, unbolt the filter and wipe down the mounting surface.
Not only were the pan and...
Not only were the pan and the filter filthy, but it was time for a gasket change as well. Rather than using an adhesive gasket, we replaced this one with the new bolt-on type, which was easier to work with.
Pick a location for the new...
Pick a location for the new plug where it won't interfere with the internal components of the transmission. The plug sticks out from the pan a bit, so also think about positioning it where it won't get snagged by rocks. Mark the pan where the plug will go and drill a 1/2-inch hole.
Then file down the rough ...
Then file down the rough spots.
Now just pop in the plug,...
Now just pop in the plug, making sure the washer goes on the outside of the pan as shown. When you tighten it (and remove it for that matter), use a wrench to hold the hex bolt in place so you don't turn the entire plug assembly.
The final step is to add transmission...
The final step is to add transmission fluid. The previous owner didn't give us the owner's manual, so we couldn't check the manufacturer's recommendation for how much to add. We put in 5 quarts, let the engine run for about a minute, then checked again to make sure we had added enough.