Transmission Care Info (MSN Article)

marvinmycat

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Feb 13, 2002
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Buffalo, NY
Some helpful info for n00bs...

Trouble-Free Transmissions

http://autos.msn.com/volvo/article.aspx?contentid=4022663

Just as oil and filter changes are good for the engine, regular fluid and filter changes are necessary for the transmission.
by Peter D. duPre


If you've ever had an automatic transmission go out on you, then you are familiar with expensive repairs. Rebuilding a broken automatic transmission is costly, with repairs generally costing between $1,500 and $2,000—or more! But why pay this kind of money if you don't have to? The transmission in your vehicle is designed to last the life of your car or truck … if you take care of it.
Former Indy car mechanic Dave Bowman says that simply by checking the transmission fluid on a monthly basis and getting regular transmission fluid and filter changes, you can keep your transmission trouble-free. He advises car owners to check their owner's manual to see what the service interval is on their vehicle's transmission and to follow it.

If you own an older vehicle or don't have an owner's manual, Bowman suggests checking with your mechanic about service intervals or following the two-year rule.

"Ideally, the fluid and filter in the transmission should be changed every two years or 24,000 miles," says Bowman, "particularly on older vehicles or on those driven under harsh conditions."

"There are many different transmissions," says Bowman, "and even those offered by the same manufacturer may have different recommended service intervals. And some newer vehicles have transmissions that are designed to be service-free for the live of the vehicle. That's why it is important to check the owner's manual."

A fluid approach
If your vehicle is driven hard, tows a trailer, carries a camper or goes off pavement, however, by-the-book service may not be enough. Under these conditions it may be necessary to change the fluid and filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles as dirt and moisture buildup in the fluid can cause internal damage. Heat buildup can also be a problem. The harder the transmission works (such as when towing or hauling a camper), the hotter the fluid gets. If it gets too hot, it scorches and can seriously damage the transmission.

According to Ron Sessions, author of the "Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 Handbook" (HP Books), the ideal operating temperature for transmission fluid is between 175 and 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

"Anything other than light-duty use raises the fluid temperature beyond this," says Sessions. "Next to regular fluid and filter changes, installation of an automatic transmission fluid cooler can go a long way towards increasing transmission life, particularly if you tow a trailer."

Like Bowman, Sessions says that regular fluids checks are vital.

"Checking transmission fluid is a bit different from checking engine oil even though both are checked by a dipstick," said Sessions. "Engine oil is checked with the engine off, but transmission fluid is checked with the brake set, gear selector in Park, and engine running."

For an accurate check, the fluid should be at operating temperature and the vehicle should be parked on a level surface. Drive for about 15 minutes beforehand to bring the fluid up to temperature before the check. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean, then reinsert it. The level should read between the ADD and FULL marks. If it isn't up to level, add the recommended fluid via the dipstick tube. To do the job yourself you'll need a specially designed funnel (available at auto parts stores).

Don't add just any transmission fluid. Different vehicles use different types of transmission fluid, such as Dexron III or Mercon. The owner's manual will tell you which type of fluid to use. Pour it slowly into the funnel, checking often to make sure you don't add too much. Check the fluid at least once a month, topping off as necessary. If you find you are adding fluid on a regular basis, you may have a leak and should get the unit serviced.

Driving habits a factor
Checks and changes of fluid are an important part of transmission care, but so are driving habits. According to Bowman, one common practice that really hurts the transmission is shifting from Drive to Reverse while the vehicle is still moving.

"This is really hard on the transmission," says Bowman. "Always make sure your foot is on the brake and the vehicle is stopped before shifting into reverse."

Manual downshifting into Low can also be bad. Many vehicles aren't designed for low-range driving except under certain conditions, such as towing. Check your owner's manual.

Another practice that shortens transmission life is parking without using the parking brake. This is an especially bad when the car is parked on a slope as all the vehicle's weight is on a tiny metal catch inside the transmission. If the catch snaps under the strain, the vehicle can roll downhill and hit something.

Sometimes, no matter how often you change the fluid and filter, or how carefully you drive, the unit will need professional attention. When this happens, choosing a qualified transmission shop is important. I offer these suggestions:

Check for certification. Reputable shops have their training certification on display. These should be from ASE (Institute for Automotive Service Excellence), ATRA (Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association) or other nationally recognized trade organization. If they are not posted, ask to see the certificates.

Watch out for cut-rate specials, especially if the shop also offers free towing. Cut-rate prices can mean cut-rate service and once they've got your vehicle, you are at their mercy. Check the shop's credentials and guarantee before you let them tow your vehicle.

Don't be misled by the warranty claims. A reputable shop will back up its work for at least 12 months/12,000 miles. If you are asked to buy an extended warranty, compare costs against benefits. Remember, you are buying repairs, not a service warranty.

Call the Better Business Bureau. While they can't recommend a repair shop, they can tell you if there are outstanding complaints against a particular shop.

Join the AAA (American Automobile Association). They offer a myriad of services for motorists, including free towing. They also will recommend a reliable repair shop in your area that meets their stringent requirements for AAA approval.
 
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