Posted on Feb 27, 2010

Transaxle... How to check and change fluids on 91 Toyota Corolla

We have our second 1991 Toyota Corolla. The first one, we did not have the transaxle checked and it ruined the car. Now we want to maintina this one and we're not sure what type of fluid to put in it... Is it gearoil 90w or is it transmission fluid we need for the transaxle. Please advise.

Thanks

DKLevinson

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Anonymous

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Posted on May 01, 2010

Anonymous

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Toyota uses Dex III ATF. You can buy from Wal-Mart:

1) Cheaper: Super Tech DEX III ATF $10/gal
2) Better: Valvoline MaxLife DEX/MER ATF $18/gal

Both are compatible, depending on how much you care about your car and how deep your pockets are :)

To check ATF fluid, look for an orange/red color dipstick (similar to the yellow dipstick for engine oil). You need to have the car in running temperature, shift through from Park, N, D, ... then back to D, N, Park (stopping for a few seconds in each gear). Then go to measure your fluid level.

If you haven't check it ever, it might be pale brown, which may look clean to you, but very deceivingly... becaue it should look red-ish / pinkish. When chemicals broken down in ATF, the red-ish color disappears. It may even be brown and smell burnt, that just mean your transmission is not in a very good shape.

If you do change the ATF, it's good to put a bottle of Lucus Oil brand "STOP SLIP / TRANSMISSION FIX" in it during your fluid change. It is a 24oz. bottle cost about $12 @ Wal-Mart or any auto stores. It will extend your transmission's life regardless. I highly recommend that.

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Where do i check trans fluid 1991 chevy cavalier

Fluid - M/T Dexron II Use a funnal add new fluid in the dipstick tube
HM-282 and 5TM40 Synchromesh Trans Fluid (Part No. 12345349)
GM-Isuzu 5 Speed Manual Transaxle Synchromesh Trans Fluid (Part No. 12345349)
Automatic Transaxle Fluid Level Checking Procedure
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A, J, L, W Cars AND U-VAN
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Transaxle fluid level checking and condition information. This updates all information previously published for 1990-93 HYDRA-MATIC 3T40, 4T60, 4T60-E and 4T80-E transaxles.
Due to enhancement of assembly plant fluid fill capabilities, it is especially important to warm the transaxle up to operating temperature before determining that fluid needs to be added. If the transaxle fluid is close to operating temperature, the fluid level may read slightly below the "ADD" mark. DO NOT ADD FLUID UNLESS THE TRANSAXLE IS AT OPERATING TEMPERATURE AND THE DIPSTICK SHOWS FLUID LEVEL IS BELOW THE CROSSHATCHED AREA.
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Checking fluid level and condition (color and smell) at recommended service intervals will provide early diagnosis information about the transaxle. This information may then be used to correct a condition that, if not detected early, could result in major transaxle repairs.
When adding or changing fluid, use only DEXRON(R)-IIE. Refer to Maintenance and Lubrication (Service Manual Section 0B) for maintenance information and service intervals.
NOTICE: Do not overfill. Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid, shift complaints and possible damage to the transaxle.Fluid level should only be checked when it reaches a normal operating temperature of 82-93 degrees C (180-200 degrees F). This temperature is reached after approximately 24 km (15 miles) of driving.
TRANSAXLE FLUID COLOR:
Fluid color will be red when new.
IMPORTANT: When new, automatic transaxle fluid is red in color. The red dye is added so the assembly plant can identify it as transaxle fluid and distinguish # from engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye is not an indicator of fluid quality and is not permanent. As the vehicle is driven the fluid will begin to look darker in color. The color may eventually appear light brown. A dark brown color with a burnt odor may indicate fluid deterioration and signal a need for a transaxle fluid change.TRANSAXLE FLUID CHECKING PROCEDURE:
1. Start engine and drive vehicle until the transaxle reaches operating temperature of 82-93 degrees C (180-200 degrees F). This temperature is reached after about 24 km (15 miles) of driving.Inaccurate fluid level readings will result if the fluid level is checked immediately after the vehicle has been operated under certain conditions:
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Apply the brake, then move the gear shift selector through all gear ranges, pausing three seconds in each range. Shift the lever into P.
Raise and safely support the vehicle.
Place a suitable drain pan under the check plug to catch any fluid that may drip out.
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Inspect
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Let vehicle idle for three to five minutes with accessories off.
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Important: Vehicle must be kept level on the hoist.

Raise vehicle on hoist.
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Lower vehicle.
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Install fluid level screw.

Tighten 12 Nm (106 lb. in.)

Lower vehicle.

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