How much transmission fluid I should buy and what type?

[WaOnFiRe]

I have a 1995 Pontiac Firebird with a 3.4L V6 and 4 speed auto transmission. I guess their's no drain plug for the transmission fluid? How much fluid I need to buy if I only drop the pan? Also which type is recommended for my car? I'm going to go buy in a few if someone could tell me how much I need. Thanks!

[landj]

Re: How much transmission fluid I should buy and what type?

Last time I did mine, I wrote down I used 5 quarts. Since I change my transmission filter and oil every 15,000 to 25,000 miles, I just use the cheapest Dextron I can find (Supertech or whatever is on sale works for me). I just used Dextron III (THREE), but you can use Dextron VI (SIX). People say Dextron VI is a better fluid with better consistant viscosity over a wider range of temperture needed for GM's newer 6 speed automatics. Dextron VI is fully backward compatible with our transmissions.


Don't forget to use a torque wrench on the pan bolts, 12 ft-lbs IIRC for the 1995.

[landj]

Re: How much transmission fluid I should buy and what type?

No, there is no drain plug for the tranny. You'll need to remove the pan to change the filter anyways.

I found that using a hand pump to pump out the warm oil from the dipstick tube prior to taking the pan off makes it less messy, otherwise, just follow the haynes or chilton's guide and loosen the bolts until it starts to flow out (the pan may stick to be careful).

[ssms5411]

Re: How much transmission fluid I should buy and what type?

I use Dextron VI works well.

[jnxV6]

Re: How much transmission fluid I should buy and what type?

5 quarts and either Dexron III or VI. Also if you install a nice new deep aluminum pan you add fluid capacity and it comes with a drain plug.