Every 10 000 miles
1•11
1 7.4 Removing the automatic transmission dipstick from its tube
7.6A “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the dipstick
7.6B Adding automatic transmission fluid through the dipstick tube
Every 10 000 miles or 12 months 7 Automatic transmission fluid level check 1 The level of the automatic transmission fluid should be carefully maintained. Low fluid level can lead to slipping or loss of drive, while overfilling can cause foaming, loss of fluid and transmission damage. 2 The transmission fluid level should only be checked when the transmission is hot (at its normal operating temperature). If the vehicle has just been driven over 10 miles (15 miles in a cold climate), and the fluid temperature is 160 to 175°F, the transmission is hot. Caution: If the vehicle has just been driven for a long time at high speed or in city traffic in hot weather, or if it has been pulling a trailer, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained. In these circumstances, allow the fluid to cool down for about 30 minutes. 3 Park the vehicle on level ground, apply the handbrake, and start the engine. While the engine is idling, depress the brake pedal and move the selector lever through all the gear ranges three times, beginning and ending in “P”. 4 Allow the engine to idle for one minute, then (with the engine still idling) remove the dipstick from its tube (see illustration). Note the condition and colour of the fluid on the dipstick. 5 Wipe the fluid from the dipstick with a clean rag, and re-insert it into the filler tube until the cap seats. 6 Pull the dipstick out again, and note the fluid level. The level should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. If the level is on the “MIN” mark, stop the engine, and add the specified automatic transmission fluid through the dipstick tube, using a clean funnel if necessary (see illustrations). It is important not to introduce dirt into the transmission when topping-up. 7 Add the fluid a little at a time, and keep checking the level as previously described until it is correct.
8 The need for regular topping-up of the transmission fluid indicates a leak, which should be found and rectified without delay. 9 The condition of the fluid should also be checked along with the level. If the fluid at the end of the dipstick is black or a dark reddishbrown colour, or if it has a burned smell, the fluid should be changed. If you are in doubt about the condition of the fluid, purchase some new fluid, and compare the two for colour and smell.
8 Electrical system check 1 Check the operation of all external lights and indicators (front and rear). 2 Check for satisfactory operation of the instrument panel, its illumination and warning lights, the switches and their function lights. 3 Check the horn(s) for satisfactory operation. 4 Check all other electrical equipment for satisfactory operation. 5 Check all electrical wiring in the engine compartment for correct routing, and for any signs of physical or heat-damage or chafing.
9 Battery check, maintenance and charging Warning: Certain precautions must be followed when checking and servicing the battery. Hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable, is always present in the battery cells, so keep lighted tobacco and all other open flames and sparks away from the battery. The electrolyte inside the battery is actually dilute sulphuric acid, which will cause injury if splashed on your skin or in your eyes. It will also ruin clothes and painted surfaces. When disconnecting the battery, always detach the negative (earth) lead first and connect it last! Note: Before disconnecting the battery, refer to Section 1 of Chapter 5.
9.1 Tools and materials required for battery maintenance 1 Face shield/safety goggles - When removing corrosion with a brush, the acidic particles can easily fly up into your eyes 2 Baking soda - A solution of baking soda and water can be used to neutralise corrosion 3 Petroleum jelly - A layer of this on the battery terminals will help prevent corrosion 4 Battery terminal/lead cleaner - This wire brush cleaning tool will remove all traces of corrosion from the battery terminals and lead clamps 5 Treated felt washers - Placing one of these on each terminal, directly under the lead clamps, will help prevent corrosion 6 Puller - Sometimes the lead clamps are very difficult to pull off the terminals, even after the nut has been completely slackened. This tool pulls the clamp straight up and off the terminal without damage 7 Battery terminal/lead cleaner - Here is another cleaning tool which is a slightly different version of number 4 above, but does the same thing 8 Rubber gloves - Another safety item to consider when servicing the battery; remember, that’s acid inside the battery!
