Trans Fluid Change Help

[zog]

I would like to change the transmisson fluid and filter in my 86 coupe. Some folks have told me not to change it because it has 96,000 miles on it. I just bought it and don't have any service records.

Also,is there a way to drain the torque converter?//

And finally, is there any ATF that is better than others for a Vette??

Thanks

 

[vms4evr]

Welcome aboard
Ok here is my opinion, I'm sure you'll get more

Not knowing its history and with those miles I can see why some people would say that. I disagree. But there are two ways to change it.

One is to let a quick change place do one of those power flushes. That will get the torque converter and everything in there. But it puts a lot of pressure on the tranny seals and all. It also shocks your tranny with almost all new fluid. I believe they get all but .5qt with that approach. It doesn't change your filter though. And if they tell you that the filter is cleaned with this approach they are full of it... I would say don't do this.

Two. Do it yourself the old fashioned way. Get a new trans filter and gasket. They come together from GM. Drop the pan and drain and replace filter. I just did this on mine. It isn't hard, but it's messy. If you do this approach you'll probably only get half of the fluid at best. Nice thing is you won't put any pressure on the seals or shock the tranny. And carefully but thoroughly clean the whole pan and the little magnet in the bottom of the pan. Then in a month or so if everything is cool just change the fluid again.

As for which fluid. Well there goes another debate... I used Mobil 1 Synthetic tranny fluid. About $2.50/qt. My tranny has always shifted very firm but consistent. I didn't feel any difference after the change. It just needs to be done.

Graham

 

[zog]

Thanks, Graham

I whole heartedly agree with you....Since I am opting to use MOBIL-1 5w30 oil (I have no idea what is in it now), I guess I will make it all Mobil and go with the Synthetic ATF. Where do you get it for $2.50 a quart....Autozone wants $4.99!!

Also, I intend to put a B&M drain plug in the transmisssion pan and then I can drain the pan every time I change the engine oil....I guess that never completely replaces the fluid, but ultimately it will be pretty fresh....thanks again for your reply....