Part of Lesson Plan: **Automatic Transmission Service (updated) by Dennis Johnson

Activity Overview / Details

Safety First!!!  Students will get their safety glasses, sample inspection task sheet, and the two remaining blank inspection sheets and follow instructor into the shop for demonstration on how to perform and inspection.  Instructor will demonstrate where to check fluid as well as how the fluid should be checked.  Instructor will inform students they should always use a lint free cloth to avoid any lint or other contaminants entering the trans.

Once students have observed a demonstration on fluid level inspection and condition, the instructor will demonstrate proper procedure for changing the transmission fluid and filter while inspecting for leaks.

1)  Lift the vehicle and support following safety procedures previously taught during vehicle hoist/floor jack safety.

2)  Locate transmission oil pan. Drain the fluid from the transmission. WARNING: When draining automatic transmission fluid, be careful not to be burned by the HOT fluid.

3)  On some vehicles without a drain bolt, complete removal of the transmission pan may be required to drain the fluid. Remove the pan, keep it level and lower it slowly to prevent spilling fluid.  Use suitable drain pan to dispose old fluid.

4)  Inspect pan for debris: Bits of metal or friction material may indicate transmission problems.

5)  Clean inside the transmission pan thoroughly.

6)  Locate the transmission filter and match up the new replacement filter with the old one to insure correct part. Remove old filter and install new transmission filter.

7) Re-install the transmission oil pan.  If sealer is used on the pan, make sure you do not use too much. Excess sealer squeezed insidepan during installation may block fluid passages and upset transmission operation.

8)  Install the transmission pan. Torque the pan bolts to specifications in a crisscross pattern.  For torque specifications, refer to service manual or online information system such as ALL DATA.

9) Fill the transmission with correct fluid type and amount. Capacity will vary depending on model of vehicle refer to service manual for proper fluid type and capacity specifications.

10)  Start the engine. Shift the transmission through it's gears. Check for leaks, and re-check fluid level.