changing the transmission fluid on a PCM 1.23/1

Can't seem to find instructions on how to remove all of the fluid. Any suggestions? Also, I'm getting a little bit of tranny fluid in the bilge but haven't figured out where it came from (the level seems correct; right at the top mark when you just lay the dipstick on the dipstick rubber (don't insert it all the way in).). Also, the shift lever seems to be a little tight. This tranny has about 500hrs on it.

Suggestions on where this tranny will leak, as well as a way to get all the oil out for a fluid change is appreciated. Someone said that you get metal brake line and hook up a vacuum pump (the metal brake line is small enough to go all the way through the dipstick hole to the bottom of the transmission.

Thanks,

Gordon

I use a fluid extractor. It works for bleeding brakes to changing transmission fluid. The specific unit I use is the MityVac 7300.

LINK

JQ

Jonny Quest wrote: I use a fluid extractor. It works for bleeding brakes to changing transmission fluid. The specific unit I use is the MityVac 7300. LINK JQ

Are the hoses/tubes that come with it small enough to go through the small hole that the end of the dipstick goes into so I suck from the bottom?

slmskrs wrote: Jonny Quest wrote: I use a fluid extractor. It works for bleeding brakes to changing transmission fluid. The specific unit I use is the MityVac 7300. LINK JQ Are the hoses/tubes that come with it small enough to go through the small hole that the end of the dipstick goes into so I suck from the bottom?

Yup. There are 3 hose diameters. The smallest will fit down most dip-stick tubes. I use the mid-size hose for my PCM transmission. The key is to wiggle and twist the tube/hose so that if gets all the way to the bottom of the transmission fluid reservoir.

The fluid extractor tank has gradations so you know how much fluid you have removed. On a PCM transmission, you should remove 2 quarts -- assuming that you started full.

JQ

Jonny Quest wrote:    The key is to wiggle and twist the tube/hose so that if gets all the way to the bottom of the transmission fluid reservoir. JQ

Don't wiggle twist and push too much. One of our very respected members did and ended up with the plastic tubing stuck in the trans!

There is a main channel down the dipstick hole (straight down) but there are other cavities down that channel that are large enough for a 1/4" hose to fit through. Edges may be sharper and may inhibit removal! Just be careful not to force the tubing in too hard, especially if the hose has a little curve to it... Could get you into trouble. I like the idea of the brass extension, it would keep you centered in the dipstick cavity, I may add one.

Good idea on the copper tubing....a small $3-5 investment to keep plastic out of the tranny

The piece of copper I used was from an old refrigerator water line. If I remember correctly it's long enough so it never goes all the way into the trans. But I will definitely check next time I use it. Copper tube in the trans would suck.

Jonny Quest wrote: TRBenj wrote: There is a main channel down the dipstick hole (straight down) but there are other cavities down that channel that are large enough for a 1/4" hose to fit through. Edges may be sharper and may inhibit removal! Just be careful not to force the tubing in too hard, especially if the hose has a little curve to it... Could get you into trouble. I like the idea of the brass extension, it would keep you centered in the dipstick cavity, I may add one. Tim: I like the brass tube extension idea also. I'll be at the local plumbing supply on my way home from work to pick some up. JQ

Please advise what diameter copper tube you picked up (that will fit down the dipstick channel)? I want to do the same thing.

Thanks.

8122pbrainard wrote: TRBenj wrote: Just make sure the copper is firmly attached to the tubing... I don't think I'd want copper in my tranny either ha. So plastic is OK?

Neither is ok to end up in the trans!

Presumably the 1/4" vinyl tubing used on most oil extractors does not have a joint/connection in the length inserted into the tranny. I'm not sure id want the copper/vinyl joint inserted into the case either... Seems like an opportunity for it to come apart upon removal.