I am currently gathering up materials to do a transmission service (filter and fluid). I don't have my FSM yet and want to know the "correct/factory" answers to the following questions:

1. How many quarts will I need to add after draining/changing filter?

2. What is the torque value for the transmission pan bolts?

3. What type of ATF does Dodge recommend for the A518 servicing?

I realize that everyone has their own way of doing this task and the fluid type they prefer.........I am only interested in what the FSM says. Thanks

 

-use mopar dexron 2 only when ATF plus is not avaible
-13ftlbs for pan bolts

 

i think it took 2 4 liter containers to re fill mine after

 

I took mine to a local tranny shop for a ful service and flush, including the TQ converter. For $180.00 They took care of me.

 

don't forget to adjust your bands while your in there. I don't have the specs but I'm sure someone on here does.

 

What exactly does adjusting the bands do?

 

it tightens up around the clutches i believe and helps it from slipping or having sloppy shifting, i may be wrong though.

 

Other than keeping the shops busy, Why would you want to change the fluid. Before I get flamed, I do change mine like the book says. I had an instructor in school that brought up some good points from GM. Transmission fluid will not deteriorate over time and it doesn't clean like motor oil. If anything ever happens to contaminate the fluid (ie water, shavings, heat, or clutch and band material) then the trans needs more than a fluid change. Actually, any trans that has seen a lot of miles has a varnish layer on the components of the case. If during a rebuild that layer isn't cleaned really well then the new fluid tends to desolve it and cause more problems.

 

Even a newly rebuilt trans will have clutch material and will always have alittle clutch matrial in the fluid because of the clutchs are always loosing the friction material so you should change it when the service manual says. and the more miles on it the more you should change it. if you have to much shavings or clutch band material then yes you do need a rebuild but alittle is normal. If you change it when its required then you'll less likely get the varnish.

to adjust the bands back off the locking nut five turns or so. then torque the bolt to 72 INCH Pounds. then back off the bolt 2 and 7\8s trun thats for the front band and 2 turns for the rearband in the pump.