2008 Grand Prix fluid change questions

[LeakySeals]

Went under the 08 grand Prix 3800 V6 in my signature to give it the first oil change since purchase. Some questions.

Was expecting to see a black shiny oil pan with a drain bolt. Instead it was grey, rough like corroded aluminum. Normal?

Could not get a socket driver on the drain bolt, too close to the transmission pan. I need to get a 13mm crescent wrench?

No visible drain bolt for the transmission pan. Do I have to flush it?

No visible coolant drain. Is it behind the shield?

 

[rshaw125]

Yep aluminum pan. It is too tight for a socket. I use a ratcheting wrench (Craftsman).
Drop trans pan for fluid change. I have Dexron VI in mine.
There is a radiator drain, can't remember where.

 

[jkhawaii]

Wrench, drop pan, just take a hose off

 

[pbm]

Your A/T probably has the 4T65E transmission. If you drop the pan, clean the magnet (maybe even add a couple of additional magnets) and change the filter, it should take close to 8 quarts (7.6 or so) which is a 75% fluid swap.
I usually put a drop or 2 of Permatex on a few of the pan bolts to keep the pan tight.
I used Mobil 1 ATF and felt comfortable for 60 or 70K.

 

[LeakySeals]

So if dropping the pan means approx 8qts, thats a huge potential for mess. I live in and apartment where they wont be too happy if I make a mistake.

Would a Mityvac make sense (with fluid warm)? Sounds like it would get most of it.

Also, has GM shifted to a screen transmission filter like other manufacturers? Being an 08, I'm hoping so.