Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test (OUTLOOK): Notes

GM studies indicate that plugged or restricted transaxle oil coolers and line cause insufficient transaxle lubrication and elevated operating temperatures which can lead to premature transaxle wear-out. Many repeat repair cases could have been prevented by following published procedures for transaxle oil cooler flushing and flow checking. This procedure includes flow checking and flushing the auxiliary transaxle oil cooler, if equipped.

IMPORTANT: Use the SA9165T or equivalent to flush the transaxle oil cooler and the oil cooler line whenever the transaxle is removed for the following repairs: See Special Tools .

Torque converter
Oil pump
Transaxle overhaul complete
Transaxle assembly replacement

Use the appropriate transaxle fluid when performing a transaxle repair. Only GM Goodwrench DEXRON®VI automatic transaxle fluid should be used when doing a repair on a six (6) speed GM transaxle.

Time allowance for performing the cooler flow checking and flushing procedure has been included in the appropriate labor time guide operations since the 1987 model year. The service procedure steps for oil cooler flushing are as follows: