Skylark L4-138 2.3L DOHC VIN D MFI QUAD 4 (1989)
Fluid - A/T: Technical Service Bulletins
A/T - Updated ATF Color & Level Checking
Bulletin
89-7-6
Date
Sept., '89
Ref. No.
89-227-7
Corp. Ref. No.
977126R
SUBJECT:
SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE - SECTION 7A - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION/ TRANSAXLE FLUID COLOR/LEVEL CHECK
INFORMATION
MODELS AFFECTED:
ALL 1987-89 MODELS
BULLETIN COVERS
Service Manual update for Transmission/Transaxle fluid level and condition information. This information is updated for 1989 service manuals printed
prior to June 1989.
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE FLUID LEVEL INFORMATION
Checking fluid level and condition (color and odor) at regular intervals will provide early diagnosis information about the transmission. This information
may then be used to correct a condition that, if not detected early, could result in major transmission repairs.
When adding or changing fluid, use only DEXRON (R) II. Refer to Maintenance and Lubrication (Service Manual Section 0B) for maintenance
information and servicing intervals.
NOTICE:
Do not overfill. Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid, shift complaints and possible damage to the transmission.
^
Fluid level should only be checked when it reaches a normal operating temperature of 82-93C (180-200F). This temperature is reached after
approximately 24 km (15 miles) of driving.
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE FLUID COLOR
^
Fluid color will be red when new.
IMPORTANT:
When new, automatic transmission fluid is red in color. The red dye is added so the assembly plant can identify it as transmission fluid and distinguish it
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 transmission fluid will
begin to look darker in color. The color may eventually appear light brown. A dark brown color along with a burnt odor may indicate excessive fluid
deterioration and signal a need for fluid change.
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE FLUID CHECKING PROCEDURE
1.
Start engine and drive vehicle for a minimum of 24 km (15 miles), or until normal operating temperature is reached.
NOTICE:
The automatic transmission fluid level must be checked with the vehicle at normal operating temperature, 82-93C (180-200F). Temperature will
greatly affect transmission fluid level. If the vehicle is not at normal operating temperature and the proper checking procedures are not followed,
the result could be a false reading of the fluid level indicator and an incorrect adjustment of the fluid level.
2.
Park vehicle on level ground.
3.
Move gear selector to "PARK".
4.
Apply parking brake and block wheels.
5.
Let vehicle idle for 3 minutes with accessories off.
