Skylark V6-3100 3.1L VIN M SFI (1996)
Transmission Cooler: Technical Service Bulletins
A/T - Oil Cooler Flushing Frequently Asked Questions
File In Section: 07 - Transmission/Transaxle
Bulletin No.: 03-07-30-027
Date: June, 2003
INFORMATION
Subject:
Most Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for J 45096 TransFlow Transmission Oil Cooling System Flushing Machine
Models:
2004 and Prior Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks with Automatic
Transmission/Transaxle
2004 and Prior HUMMER H2
This bulletin is issued to help answer the most frequently asked questions and concerns about essential tool J 45096.
Q: Why doesn't the machine work below 18°C (65°F)?
A: The flow characteristics of ATF at temperatures below 18°C (65°F) does not provide accurate flow test results with the electronics used in the J
45096.
Q: Why didn't the unit come with a tank heater?
A: The vast majority of dealerships do not require a heater to keep the ATF above 18°C (65°F). As a result, the heater was deleted as a cost-savings
measure. A tank heater, J 45096-10, is currently available from Kent-Moore if your dealership requires it. Refer to Corporate Bulletin Number
03-07-30-002A for suggestions on warming the ATF without using a heater blanket.
Q: Why does the machine fail new oil coolers?
A: Several reasons have been found. The most likely reason is the air pressure at the air hose connected to the J 45096 is less than 586 kPa (85 psi).
Other reasons include a twisted hose inside the J 45096 at the bulkhead as a result of the nut turning when the waste or supply hose was installed, the
internal pressure regulator was improperly set at the factory or a problem with the cooler lines on the vehicle. Perform the J 45096 self-test as
described on pages 9 and 10 of the Operation Manual. If a problem is still detected, refer to Troubleshooting on page 19 of the Operation Manual. If
a problem still persists, contact Kent-Moore Customer Service at 1-800-345-2233.
Q: What is the difference between steel and aluminum oil coolers?
A: The aluminum oil cooler tube is slightly thinner in construction than the steel oil cooler tube, which affects the oil flow rate. The fitting that is
protruding out of the radiator tank easily identifies the aluminum oil cooler. Refer to the Quick Reference card provided with the J 45096 in order to
identify the proper flow rate for the aluminum oil cooler.
Q: Why can't I use TransFlow for Allison transmission cooling Systems?
A: Validation of TransFlow is currently under development for light duty trucks equipped with the Allison automatic transmission. TransFlow is based
on the existing MINIMUM flow rate specification through the transmission oil cooling system. The Allison transmission oil cooling system only has
MAXIMUM oil flow rates specified and J 45096 does not have the capability to test the transmission oil cooling system at the maximum oil flow rate
specification.
Q: Why doesn't GM publish a specification for auxiliary transmission oil coolers?
A: The auxiliary oil cooler used with GM vehicles does not contain an internal turbulator plate like the radiator tank oil cooler does. Therefore, there is
no internal restriction that would affect the flow rate through the oil cooling system so a specification for auxiliary oil cooler is not required. Keep in
mind, kinks and damage to the auxiliary cooler and lines can affect the flow rate through the system.
Q: Why did GM drop the labor time for transmission repairs?
A: The labor for flushing and flow testing the transmission oil cooling system is included with the R&R labor of the "K" labor operations that require
transmission removal. The time required to use the J 45096 to perform the flush and flow test is much less than that of the J 35944-A. The warranty
labor savings allowed GM to provide the J 45096 at no cost to dealerships.
