Transmission Fluid Condition Check

1. Make the normal fluid check as outlined.

2. Observe color and odor of the fluid. It should be dark reddish, not brown or black. Odor can sometimes indicate that there is an overheating condition or clutch disc or band failure.

3. Use an absorbent white facial tissue to wipe the dipstick. Examine the stain for evidence of solids (specks of any kind) and for antifreeze signs (gum or varnish on oil level indicator (7A020)).

   If specks are present in the oil or there is evidence of antifreeze, the transmission oil pan (7A194) must be removed for further inspection. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive solids in the transmission oil pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned and serviced. This includes cleaning the torque converter (7902) and transmission cooling system. It would be a waste of time to perform any further checks before cleaning and servicing the transmission. During disassembly and assembly, all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After the transmission has been serviced, all diagnosis tests and adjustments listed in the Diagnosis by Symptom chart must be completed to ensure the concern has been corrected.