Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing and Flow Test: Preparation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

During the installation of the repaired or replacement transmission, do not connect the oil cooler pipes.

Fig 1: Identifying Cooler Flushing Equipments
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Do not use solutions that contain alcohol or glycol. Use of solutions that contain alcohol or glycol may damage the J 35944-A, oil cooler components and/or transmission components.

IMPORTANT: The J 35944-22 is environmentally safe, yet powerful enough to cut through transmission fluid to dislodge any contaminants from the cooler. The safety precautions on the label, regarding potential skin and eye irritations associated with prolonged exposure, are typical precautions that apply to many similar cleaning solutions. It should be noted that according to GM, use of other non-approved fluids for cooler flushing can have an adverse reaction to the seals inside the transmission.
Remove the fill cap (9) on the J 35944-A and fill the flusher tank (4) with 0.6 L (20-21 oz) of J 35944-22, using the measuring cup (6). Do not overfill.
Install the fill cap (9) on the J 35944-A and pressurize the flusher tank (4) to 550-700 kPa (80-100 psi), using the shop air supply at the tank air valve (2).
With the water supply valve (1) on the J 35944-A in the OFF position, connect the water supply hose from the J 35944-A to the water supply at the faucet.
Turn ON the water supply at the faucet.