Changing Transmission Fluid on a 91 Corolla...proper steps needed..

[mAdD INDIAN]

Ok I have a 91 Corolla (auto tranny) that currently has 138K kms on it. The shifts are getting kinda rough, I can feel the jerk when the car shifts, now I know its normal to feel a little jerk, but its getting pretty rough. I also checked the transmission fluid from the dipstick and its not smooth. I can feel roughness in the oil, I heard that its bad sign if the tranny fluid isn't smooth.

Now on to changing the fluid. Should I use Redline Synthenic Tranny Fluid on it?? I live in Canada, so I need something that can work in harsh climates (both extremes). Is it ok to put synthetic on a car that old??

Also how would I go about draining the fluid. I know I have to remove the pan and then let the fluid drip for a few hours. Do I have to buy anything and put it in?? Like when you change motor oil you put in a filter, do I have to do that from the tranny too??

Any sites that I can use to help me? Thanks.

Also I only have the jack that comes with the car to lift it up, can I let the car rest on it for a few hours?

 

[Pepsi90919]

a few hours to drain? shouldn't take nearly that long.

yes there is a filter you will need to change. and a gasket for the pan probably too.

 

[Monel Funkawitz]

Loosen pan bolts. Get alot of ATF fluid all over your shirt/pants/etc. Let drain. Remove bolts. Remove filter. Install new filter. Install new gasket. Install bolts. Tighten bolts. Fill with ATF.

If you don't know how to change ATF fluid, either get a Haynes manual, or take it to someone that knows WTf they are doing.

 

[Tominator]

If you are experiencing the trouble you say, it's time to take it to a reputible transmission shop....

 

[mAdD INDIAN]

<< If you are experiencing the trouble you say, it's time to take it to a reputible transmission shop.... >>



It's that serious?? The tranny isn't slipping tho, just shifts hard. I was hoping the car would last another 5 years atleast!!

Wel I'll try changing the oil first, and if it still feels that way after a while, then I'll take it to a shop. The problem is that I don't know of any reputable tranny shops around here, there are a few Mr Transmission places but they look shady.

 

[geno]

Indian, you may need to have the bands adjusted - basically part of a little tune up for your tranny (changing the fluid is part of this obviously)

 

[N8Magic]

Seriously, go buy a Chiltons (sp) shop manual for your car. It'll be one of the best investments you will ever make. You wouldn't believe how easy it is to do alot of the routine maintenance on your own car.

As for just using the jack, that is a definite no-no. Go and spend a few bucks and buy some axle-stands. The OEM jack is simply too prone to falling over to be safe.

Oh, and use synthetic fluid too. The difference is amazing.

 

[mAdD INDIAN]

genocide: what bands are you talking about??

N8Magic: I think I'll pick up the Chiltons manual from the local library or buy the book from Canadian Tire. Second, would you happen to know how much axle stands go for? Are they those's triangular shaped things you put under the car to hold it up?

Also is it safe to put syntetic in a car that old?

Thanks.