SERVICE PROCEDURES
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK
NOTE: The transmission and differential have sep-
arate oil sumps. The transmission sump requires
automatic transmission fluid. The differential sump
requires petroleum based hypoid gear lube.
TRANSMISSION SUMP
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a dipstick to check oil
similar to most automatic transmissions. It is located
on the left side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt
from dipstick handle before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the P Park and N
Neutral positions. Place the selector lever in P Park
to be sure that the fluid level check is accurate. The
engine should be running at idle speed for at
least one minute, with the vehicle on level
ground. At normal operating temperature (approxi-
mately 82 C. or 180 F.), the fluid level is correct if it
is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil
level indicator (Fig. 37). The fluid level will be
approximately one-quarter inch above the lower hole
of the dipstick at 70° F fluid temperature.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK USING DRB
NOTE: Engine and Transaxle should be at normal
operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Hook up DRBIII scan tool and select transmis-
sion.
(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
chart.
(6) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
dipstick according to the chart.
(7) Check transmission for leaks.
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle recondition is needed.
Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.
If there is any doubt about its condition, drain out a
sample for a double check.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission fluid level should be inspected at
least every six months.
DIFFERENTIAL SUMP
The differential sump is checked separately from
the transmission. A fill plug located on the side of the
transaxle must be removed to check fluid level. The
fluid should be level with the bottom of the fill hole.
The differential capacity is .946 liters (32 ounces).
Inspect the differential area during engine oil
changes for any leaks. If leakage is present, deter-
mine the source of the leak and repair as required.
Remove the fill plug and verify the proper level.
Adjust if needed.
FLUID AND FILTER SERVICE—TRANSMISSION
NOTE: Refer to Group 0, Lubrication and Mainte-
nance, or the vehicle owner’s manual, for the rec-
ommended maintenance (fluid/filter change)
intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: The 42LE Transaxle has separate transmis-
sion and differential fluid sumps. Refer to Fluid
Drain and Refill—Differential for differential fluid
service.
Fig. 37 Dipstick Markings
1 – TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
LH 42LE TRANSAXLE 21 - 29
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