Transmission Fluid Coller Flow Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The following components should be checked and should be within specification prior to carrying out this test:

Engine idle; See INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE article.
Transmission fluid level; refer to TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL CHECK .
Line pressure; refer to SPECIAL TESTING PROCEDURES .
Transmission fluid must be at normal operating temperature, 66°C - 77°C (150°F - 170°F)

Place the transmission range selector lever into PARK.
Position the vehicle on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Prior to carrying out this test, check to see if the vehicle is equipped with a transmission fluid in-line fluid filter. If the vehicle is equipped with a transmission fluid in-line fluid filter, it must be removed and discarded.

Fig 1: Identifying Small (Center) Fluid Level Indicating Plug
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a 3/16 inch Allen key, hold the large drain plug with a wrench and remove the small (center) fluid level indicating plug.

Fig 2: Removing Small (Center) Fluid Level Indicating Plug
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the special tool into the pan.

Fig 3: Installing Special Tool Into Pan
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cooler return line (upper line) from the fitting on the transmission case.

Fig 4: Removing Cooler Return Line (Upper Line) From Fitting On Transmission Case
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Connect one end of a clear hose to the cooler return line and route the other end of the hose to the special tool in the pan.
Lower the vehicle.
Start the engine and run it at idle.
With the engine running, place the vehicle in PARK and position the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Once a steady flow of fluid (without air bubbles) is observed, remove the hose from the special tool and place the hose in a measuring container for 15 seconds. After 15 seconds, place the hose back onto the special tool. Lower the vehicle and turn the engine OFF. Measure the amount of fluid in the container. If adequate flow is observed, approximately 208 ml (7 oz) will be in the measuring container. The test is now complete. Reconnect the cooler line and install the fluid fill plug.
If the flow is not adequate 208 ml (7 oz) in 15 seconds, disconnect the hose from the cooler return line and connect the hose to the cooler inlet (lower fitting) on the transmission case. Reconnect the cooler return line to the case (upper fitting) and continue with this procedure.
Repeat Steps 10- 11 to see if the flow is now adequate.
- If the flow is now approximately 208 ml (7 oz) in 15 seconds, install a new transmission fluid cooler and flush out the fluid cooler tubes. Test is complete.
- If the flow is still not adequate 208 ml (7 oz) in 15 seconds the pump and/or torque converter may be at fault. Carry out the following procedures and checks:
  - Carry out the torque converter diagnosis. Refer to TORQUE CONVERTER DIAGNOSIS .
  - Carry out the main control valve body procedure. Refer to MAIN CONTROL VALVE BODY .
  - Carry out the fluid pump procedure. Refer to FLUID PUMP .
Once the procedure has been completed and adequate flow has been established, a new transmission in-line filter will need to be installed. For the filter installation procedure, refer to TRANSMISSION FLUID IN-LINE FILTER .