Changing ATF on a 6T40 (or maybe it's a 6T30)

[pbm]

I scored some Valvoline Dexron VI at AZ on closeout and want to D&R the fluid on my Cruze. There is a drain plug and refill port but no dipstick for measuring. On the Cruze forum a GM tech states that this is not a DIY job because the fluid must be at a certain temperature and a scan tool is needed to refill the proper amount. He states that over/under filling by even 6 ounces can cause problems.

I'm thinking that if I drain the fluid cold and replace the exact same amount that I'll be fine.

Opinions?

 

[charbaby]

Well for starters, measure what you removed and put back in that same amount...Exactly!

 

[The_Jeff]

Weighing the fluid would be a good way to get a precise measure. When you refill it, set up a pan in case you dribble, then weigh what you dribble so you can add it, again, fresh.

6 oz will screw things up? What of a small leak?

 

[pbm]

Originally Posted By: eljefino
Weighing the fluid would be a good way to get a precise measure. When you refill it, set up a pan in case you dribble, then weigh what you dribble so you can add it, again, fresh.

6 oz will screw things up? What of a small leak?



I think I'm gonna go for it...I used this method on the 4T45E in my (sold) Saturn Ion and it shifted great afterwards.
I really doubt that a few ounces would make a difference.

PS: I think it's just a way for Chevy to get us to use the dealer for service.
Whenever I go to a dealer and see the 'free' coffee and numerous 'service advisors' I realize why they charge so much...

 

[99Saturn]

Is there an overflow plug / leveler port in your model year? I know they exist but were eventually done away with.

I would be interested in how it goes once you've completed if you don't mind posting some thoughts/feedback.

Originally Posted By: pbm
PS: I think it's just a way for Chevy to get us to use the dealer for service.
Whenever I go to a dealer and see the 'free' coffee and numerous 'service advisors' I realize why they charge so much...

 

[artificialist]

I always would drain the fluid cold, put it into graduated cylinders, and add the exact amount. It worked in my Lancer and my dad's 2007 Pontiac G6.

 

[Tucson Five-O]

pbm,

The 1.4l Turbo has the slightly beefier 6T40. The n/a 1.8l has the 6T30 transmission.

I think draining it cold, making sure the used fluid temperature is at the same temperature as the new fluid (inside room temperature, for instance), carefully measuring the volume, and replacing, will work great.

Take some pictures of the job and post them.

I'd like to do the same on my 2013 1.4l T.

Gary

 

[pbm]

Originally Posted By: Tucson Five-O
pbm,

The 1.4l Turbo has the slightly beefier 6T40. The n/a 1.8l has the 6T30 transmission.

I think draining it cold, making sure the used fluid temperature is at the same temperature as the new fluid (inside room temperature, for instance), carefully measuring the volume, and replacing, will work great.

Take some pictures of the job and post them.

I'd like to do the same on my 2013 1.4l T.

Gary




Hi Gary:

I also think that draining it cold will work fine.
I'm trying to get a little more information before I plunge ahead with my ATF change.

Here is a quote from a guy on the Cruze forum:

"I have a friend works for GMC he gave me print out on how to do it step by step and it states has to be operating temp 200 degrees min and level and running pull plug let it drain till you see aprox. 1 second between drops put it back in do not over tighten plugs as they are like pluming pipes small at top and slightly wider at bottom...."

He seems to be saying that you pull the actual drain plug with the engine running??
Is there another plug that he's talking about?
Does anybody have access to a shop manual to verify this?
Thanks