i'm getting ready to change the filter, fluid (for the transmission pan) and gasket for the transmission. i've got the parts, so i'm getting ready to go to work. how do i drain the tranny fluid to get started on this? any advice while i'm in there?

What year? On my 94, the crossmember has to be removed in order to remove the pan. Otherwise, work around the pan---take some bolts in one corner all the way out but leave others in. The fluid has to drain out of one corner. If the pan is stuck due to the gasket use a putty knife or something like it and be very careful and loosen the pan from the tranny to get the oil to flow out. Remove all of the old gasket.

i'm sorry. it's a 96. the pan has no obstructions. . fortunately, getting that thing off should be really easy. (fingers crossed)

That's a good thing. Good luck.

i got it off just fine. i used your advice and got the tranny fluid out with minimal mess. should be easy from here. thanks.

I hope you used synthetic tranny fluid.

You should have it flushed it. There are several quarts that are still in your torque converter that will not drain with just pulling the pan.

i did flush it, i did not use synthetic tranny fluid.

what benefit does synth have over standard?

Without getting too technical "standard/petroleum" fluids contain mixtures of several different sizes of hydrocarbon molecules and other components which lead to various rates of evaporation, degeneration, and oxidation. Whereas with synthetic you get a fluid that has more uniform molecules(man-made)--better oxidation stability, better film strength. Next time you change your fluids consider synthetic fluids.

Yip, what he said plus better fuel economy and better cleaning and longer lifetime.

A LOT longer lifetime indeed---too many benefits too not consider using synthetic------especially at todays repair and part costs.

Yea, and while you are at it I would replace the tranfer case and front and rear differentials with synthetic gear oil also for even better fuel economy.

i will seriously consider doing all that as soon as i get the thing out of the garage. i have too many things to work on right now that i can't do maintanence work until it's done. i'll check it out though. it seems like a good idea.

sure, do it.