Automatic Transmission/Transaxle: Service Precautions

Transmission Service Precautions and Preparation
Before proceeding with disassembly, thoroughly clean the outside of the transaxle. It is important to prevent the internal parts from becoming contaminated by dirt or other foreign matter.

Disassembly should be done in a clean work area.

Use lint-free cloth or towels for wiping parts clean. Common shop rags can leave fibers that could interfere with the operation of the transaxle.

Place disassembled parts in order for easier and proper assembly.

All parts should be carefully cleaned with a general purpose, non-flammable solvent before inspection or reassembly.

Gaskets, seals and O-rings should be replaced any time the transaxle is disassembled.

It is very important to perform functional tests whenever they are indicated.

The valve body contains precision parts and requires extreme care when parts are removed and serviced. Place disassembled valve body parts in order for easier and proper assembly. Care will also prevent springs and small parts from becoming scattered or lost.

Properly installed valves, sleeves, plugs, etc. will slide along bores in valve body under their own weight.

Before assembly, apply a coat of recommended ATF to all parts. Apply petroleum jelly to protect O-rings and seals, or hold bearings and washers in place during assembly. Do not use grease.

Extreme care should be taken to avoid damage to O-rings, seals and gaskets when assembling.

Replace ATF cooler if excessive foreign material is found in oil pan or clogging strainer. Refer to "ATF COOLER SERVICE".

After overhaul, refill the transmission with new ATF.

When the A/T drain plug is removed, only some of the fluid is drained. Old A/T fluid will remain in torque converter and ATF cooling system.