Magnefine inline filter installation using GM radiator adapters?

[brianl703]

I want to install a Magnefine inline transmission filter on my mom's 2004 Malibu Classic (same body style as the 97-03 Malibu)

Unfortunately, the metal cooler lines are crimped to the rubber hose at both ends, and I'd rather NOT cut that hose nor do I want to cut the metal lines. Some cars just use hose clamps to connect the rubber hose to the metal lines..not this one, it's crimped just like a high-pressure power steering hose or an A/C hose would be.

I think I have found the solution, the Imperial 240390 Transmission Line Fitting Kit: GM & Jeep, 5/8"-18 Inverted Flare. Advance Auto Parts sells it for $6 and change.

It provides a male fitting that screws into the radiator trans cooler and a female fitting that screws into the trans cooler line. It has hose barbs on the other end, which I can attach some 11/32" cooler hose to and connect to the Magnefine filter.

There's plenty of room right next to the radiator for the Magnefine filter.

Does anyone happen to know if the top radiator fitting is the return line to the transmisson?

Am I likely to lose any fluid when I open the top fitting? I would think that with the engine off gravity would pull it all back to the pan..

 

[Ken2]

You can test the direction of ATF flow...
1) Pull the coil wire or otherwise prevent the engine from running.
2) remove one transmission cooler fitting
3) crank the engine
4) note the direction of ATF flow


Ken

 

[acewiza]

Depending on where it's at in the service schedule and what your plans are in that area, you may want to leave the coil wire on, run it for a haf minute or so and pump out a couple quarts to replace with new fluid as long as you're at it...