I finally did the job I really didn't want to!
Gearbox fluid change, I nearly nearly nearly booked this job in, I just don't like messing with auto boxes, they are an unknown to me and I wasn't sure I wanted the hassle, however, as I had the bits and a few hours, I thought let's do it, the youtube tutorials showed how straight forward it was and gave me the confidence to have a go.
I warmed up by changing the differential fluids, these are dead easy, fill until over spill jobs. I opted for Castrol 75/90 GL4. I used similar stuff in my Boxster with fantastic results, not the cheapest but I trust the brand and had good results.
Always undo the fill plugs before draining the fluid!
Dirty!
Front diff, fluid appeared clean compared to the rear.
Everything nice and dry under here!
Then on to the dreaded gearbox, the fluid came out a decent shade of red, I did think to myself, I should have left it but I'm not sure if ATF turns a horrible shade of black..Too late to stop now.
Pan down, 2 sheared bolts (FFS!)
Swarf build up, when I saw this I was glad to be changing the filter and fluid.
Filter with crap showing in the mesh
New filter mesh
Scary
I used a combination of a handheld thermometer and an app (EZDiag) to read the gearbox temp. Essentially this is filled up with 3.5-4 litres until it begins to drip out, you run the car and have someone go through the gears, holding for 5 seconds, keep filling until spill and when the fluid is spilling out at 40 degrees, that's it, button her up and call it a day.
I went out for a test drive, got back, checked for any leaks and then refitted the under trays.
Results, positive! Smoother drive, the gearshifts can't be felt! I did not expect to notice any improvements as I didn't feel anything to be wrong, but now I have done this, the difference was noticed immediately. Before, I could sometimes feel the car engaging gear when coasting and then applying light throttle, now, I can't feel that. Gear changes are seamless, I can't feel them. Before I could but thought it was normal.
Easy job all in, 2 snapped bolts are annoying, I am yet to drill those out as I didn't have the easyouts but they're on the way. I wrapped some masking tape around the sides of the sump to help me spot any leaks and as of this morning, nothing. But I will be getting those out. I replaced all bolts with stainless items, m6x25 flanged head. New gasket was also fitted.
I will not be scared of changing the fluid in an auto box again :grin:
Fun stuff, newly painted bits coming tonight