Can someone point me in the right direction for: 1) Transmission indentification so I can understand which one I have. 2) Checking and draining the manual transmission fluid. 3) Type of fluid to put back in ? I see mixed opinions on this...
Thanks
[This message has been edited by robert1234 (edited 11-13-2016).]
If one transmission cable comes down from the top and the other from the bottom, it's a Getrat. If both are side by side, underneath the breather tube, it's a 4-speed. If both side by side over the top of the breather tube, it's an Isuzu.
Drain plug is on the bottom of the transmission. Fill through the fill plug if it has one, otherwise, VERY carefully remove the speedometer sender. Add 2.5 quarts of Pennzoil Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid. Found at most AutoZones or other auto parts stores.
Isuzu
Getrag
[This message has been edited by fierofool (edited 11-13-2016).]
Original recommendations when the Fiero came out in 1984 were 5-30 oil or ATF.
Later, Pontiac issued a Service Bulletin saying that ALL manual transmissions should be filled using Synchromesh Transmission Fluid My GM parts counter guys also recommended adding a 4oz bottle of AC Delco Limited Slip Axle Additive - never had any problems!
Fierofool nailed it. I also would recommend Synchromesh. It's a little spendy, but it's not something you will have to do on a regular basis. My ('93) Getrag held exactly two quarts. I have heard other people say differently Regardless... fill it to "full" on the dipstick, if it has one; or to the the bottom of the opening in the fill plug, if that's the Getrag that you (probably) have. My Isuzu doesn't have a fill plug. You have to fill it to the line on the VSS gear. DO be careful removing the VSS. If the gear falls off, it will cause you to have a bad day.
DO be careful removing the VSS. If the gear falls off, it will cause you to have a bad day.
quote
Originally posted by robert1234:
How do you prevent the gear from failing off ?
Be gentle. Don't act like you're yanking a large carrot out of the ground.
Clean the top of the tranny around the VSS, and then perhaps dump/spray some penetrating oil in the area so it can work it's way down the side of the VSS. You want the VSS assembly to pull up and out smoothly, maybe with a slight twisting motion. The gear shouldn't fall off unless you try to haphazardly rip a semi-stuck VSS out of the hole.
[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 11-15-2016).]
The gear just snaps onto the VSS (variable speed sensor) shaft. The diameter of the gear is just a little smaller than the VSS hole. The VSS may be stuck, so a light bump with a rubber hammer or dead blow might be in order, working your way around the VSS. Don't use a metal hammer. It could damage it.
Sometimes you can use a good strong wide blade screwdriver inserted into the hold down slot on the side and while wiggling the vss with your hand, exert pressure to lift and break it loose. Once loose, grasp the vss with both hands and very slowly work it upward, using the sides of your hands against the transmission to exert the upward force while wiggling it. Don't just grab and pull up while rocking the vss. Act like you're removing the cork from a champagne bottle. Restrain it with one hand while removing it with the other.
As the o-ring seal releases, VERY SLOWLY lift while guiding the gear up through the hole. A flashlight may be helpful. Snagging the gear on the lip of the hole.....Well, Raydar said it best. I suggest to not drain the transmission until you have the fill plug or the vss removed.
Update: Started typing this about an hour ago. Had to feed the dogs, give them their meds, take my meds and change the wife's IV. In the meantine....Well, Patrick comes along
[This message has been edited by fierofool (edited 11-15-2016).]
Update: Started typing this about an hour ago. Had to feed the dogs, give them their meds, take my meds and change the wife's IV. In the meantine....Well, Patrick comes along
Robert, tell us again why you're asking to remove the VSS ?
Could be because I had advised to use the VSS in instances where there was no dipstick. On transmissions that don't have a dipstick, I've never pulled any plugs from the case. I always used the VSS port.
Robert, tell us again why you're asking to remove the VSS ?
Could be because I had advised to use the VSS in instances where there was no dipstick. On transmissions that don't have a dipstick, I've never pulled any plugs from the case. I always used the VSS port.
Thanks, good information. But.... I don't recall wanted to do anything with the VSS.
I asked..... Can someone point me in the right direction for: 1) Transmission indentification so I can understand which one I have. 2) Checking and draining the manual transmission fluid. 3) Type of fluid to put back in ? I see mixed opinions on this...
the above pics in the post above show your transmission. Follow the posted directions, you may use the dipstick hole to add fluid by funnel and hose. Check level after 2.5qts are added. fill as necessary.
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