Fluid Condition

1. Make the normal fluid check.
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, clutch disc or band failure.
3. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe the fluid level indicator. Examine the stain on tissue for evidence of solids (specks of any kind) and for antifreeze signs (gum or varnish on fluid level indicator).

If specks are present in the fluid or there is evidence of antifreeze, the transmission pan 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 pan, the transmission must be disassembled, completely cleaned and serviced. This includes cleaning the torque converter 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 Index must be completed to make sure the concern has been corrected.