Hello,
The transmission is drained via the 19mm plug on the left side of the steel transmission pan. Most of the fluid is stored in the torque converter (between the engine and transmission). Remove the two 10mm bolts holding the metal screen on the bottom of the bell housing. Turn the engine until the drain plug on the bottom of the torque converter is visible. A 5mm allen wrench is needed to remove the plug. Always turn the engine in the normal direction of rotation.
If you are experiencing transmission problems and have low fluid level, the modulator diaphram may be ruptured causing fluid to get sucked into the engine and burned off, sometimes fouling number six spark plug. If so, white smoke will be visible from the exhaust.
A filter replacement is advisable during a fluid change also. It is a good idea to re-torque the bolts holding the valve body in place, when the filter is out. You will need a new cork gasket for the transmission pan. Check the condition of the flexible rubber transmission hoses going into the radiator also.
When everything is back together, partially fill the transmission through the dip stick tube, then start the engine and move the shifter through the gears to pump fluid up into the converter. Add the remainder of the fluid while the engine is running. The fluid level will change slightly as the engine warms up. The final fluid check should be with warm engine, on perfectly level ground. Move the shifter through the gears and set it in park running for the level check. Be careful the marks on the dipstick are 1 pint! Do not overfill. If you do accidentally overfill, it is easier to drain off a little fluid by loosening a flexible transmission hose going into the radiator.
The three position solenoid on the transmission and it's linkage must be free and working properly or shift problems will occure.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
