Transmission Fluid Fill Procedure

Special Tools 

DT-51190  Transmission Fluid Fill Adapter

Equivalent regional tools: Special Tools

Check the transmission fluid level, refer to Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check .

Fill Tube Plug Method

1. Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

   CAUTION:

   Use Dexron® HP transmission fluid only. Failure to use the proper fluid may result in transmission internal damage.

   Based on accessibility, transmission fluid may be added through the fluid fill tube plug assembly (1) hole or through the oil level check plug (2) hole in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan.

CAUTION:

Before removing the transmission fluid fill tube plug assembly, thoroughly clean around the plug to prevent dirt or contaminants from entering the transmission during plug removal. Use compressed air to dislodge any caked dirt that may be stuck on and around the plug area. Use a mirror to confirm the area is free of dirt before removing the plug. Failure to clean around the plug may result in transmission contamination.

2. Clean around the fluid fill tube plug (1).

3. Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

   NOTE:

   It may be necessary to use a long pair of 90 degree needle nose pliers to lift the plunger and remove the plug assembly.

   Unlock the fill tube plug by lifting the plunger. Once the plunger is lifted, remove the entire plug assembly (1).

4. Determine the approximate amount of fluid needed to fill the transmission, based on the repair performed. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities . To avoid an under-fill condition, slightly overfill the transmission, and then allow the extra fluid to drain out through the oil level check plug during the transmission fluid level and condition check procedure.
5. Using a pneumatic air fluid dispenser pump tool or a suitable hand pump, add transmission fluid through the fill tube plug opening.
CAUTION:

Check the transmission fluid level immediately after adding fluid and before vehicle operation. Do not overfill the transmission. An overfilled transmission may result in foaming or fluid to be expelled out the vent tube when the vehicle is operated. Overfilling will result in possible damage to the transmission.

6. Check the fluid level. Refer to Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check .

Check Plug Method 

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

CAUTION:

Use Dexron® HP transmission fluid only. Failure to use the proper fluid may result in transmission internal damage.

NOTE:

When the oil level check plug is removed with the engine OFF, transmission fluid may drain from the hole.

1. Remove the oil level check plug.

2. Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

   Install DT-51190  fluid fill pan adapter (1).

3. Determine the approximate amount of fluid needed to fill the transmission, based on the repair performed. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities . To avoid an under-fill condition, slightly overfill the transmission, and then allow the extra fluid to drain out through the oil level check plug during the transmission fluid level and condition check procedure.
4. Using the DT-51190  fluid fill pan adapter (1), and a pneumatic air fluid dispenser pump tool or a suitable hand pump, add transmission fluid through the check plug hole.
NOTE:

Failure to start the engine and move the shift lever through the gear ranges before removing the DT-51190  fluid fill pan adapter and fluid dispenser pump tool from the bottom pan will result in an excess amount of fluid draining from the check plug hole. This may lead to an under-fill condition.

5. Start the engine and move the shift lever through each gear range. Pause for at least 3 seconds in each gear range.
CAUTION:

Check the transmission fluid level immediately after adding fluid and before vehicle operation. Do not overfill the transmission. An overfilled transmission may result in foaming or fluid to be expelled out the vent tube when the vehicle is operated. Overfilling will result in possible damage to the transmission.

6. With the engine still running, remove the DT-51190  fluid fill pan adapter (1), and fluid dispenser pump tool, then check the fluid level. Refer to Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check .