Change the automatic transmission fluid

2CP-ARCHIVES

MEMBER
1997 ISUZU RODEO
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
49,998 MILES

3.2L V6 mileage: 50,000. I would like to change the automatic transmission fluid in my vehicle (I am familiar with the procedure on older vehicles) but on my Isuzu the transmission is a sealed unit. It has an overfill and drain plug. I drained approximately three quarts and filled it with about the same amount through the overfill hole so the best I was able to do was a partial change (total capacity = 9.1 quarts). I have searched everywhere for information on how to service this type of transmission (4L30-E) to no avail. Regardless of whether or not it is supposed to be serviced at approximately 100,000 miles I would rather change oil than change a transmission. How do you change the oil on this type of transmission? The service manual I have gives no specifics.

2 Replies

2CP-ARCHIVES

MEMBER
4,542 POSTS

First drop the pan and change the filter, then install a new pan gasket and refill the system. If you want to flush the system undo one of the transmission lines and put them into a bucket, then start the engine and start pouring fluid into it, stop once the fluid is clean. Here is a guide that will help you:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

This unit must be filled from the bottom using a filler tool then you start the car and let it flow out until done then install the plug. Here are diagrams below to show you how.

Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken

Images (Click to make bigger)