I know more people would change transmission fluid if there was a drain plug...

(Without, there is usually a lot of spillage because the entire pan has to be loosened
to drain.)

Why doesn't GM provide a drain plug ? They want you to bring it in for a dealer service.
The owners' handbook even hints the automatic transmission is "sealed".

Simple: If you or a friend have welding skills, cut a square of 1/4" flat steel about 2" in
size, weld this piece outside the pan. Then drill and tap for a 3/8" tapered thread pipe
plug like Briggs Stratton and others use for oil drain plugs.

Caution: Brazing the flat square with torch and brass rod may leave pinholes because
the pan is galvanized. Galvanized coating causes bubbles and pin holes that will
leak. Use an electric wireweld machine.

Double check: After you think the alteration is ready, pour some water in the pan,
let it sit for awhile.

Actually heres how to loosen a pan without the mess.

Take and loosen one side completly. Then work your way around one more side, fluid will start to drain, let it for a second. Remove more bolts, and more fluid will drain. You need to get down to two bolts holding it in, now fluid is draining out quite a lot. When you remove the last two bolts, the rest of fluid comes, along with all the fluid in pan that was below the gasket that didnt drain in the first place.

I cant do it without making any mess, I barely get any one my hand even.




- 2004 Cavalier - 124k, owned since new

Rob S, smile, you most times have worthwhile comments. Smile....Not this time...