new transmission fluid feels weird

[mlupone]

This afternoon I replaced the transmission filter and topped it off with Dextron III fluid. I assumed that mixing Dextron II (what was probably already in the tranny) and Dextron III is okay.

Everything seemed as normal at first, but after driving about 5-6 miles, it seems that the car shifts differently now. The shifts feel more "pronounced". Sometimes when I'm slowing down it seems that the vehicle is having a harder time to downshift. I checked the fluid level and I was a little low so I topped off again (I ensured that there were no leaks). Although this could be all in my head now that I'm scrutinzing how the vehicle shifts.

Does this seem strange?

I'm about to take the car into a tranny shop for them to diagnose...better safe than sorry I always say?

Any advice?

Thanks!

[GTP Dad]

It may be that you are scrutinizing the shifts. As long as you used the recommended tranny fluid then you should have no problems. The quality of the new fluid and the fact there is a clean filter is probably allowing more fluid to the pumps and therefore a stronger shift. If you take the tranny to a shop and they want to flush the transmission don't do it because it will insure that you will need a new one in the next couple of months.

[Forkliftguy]

I agree with GTP on the fact that now that you have replaced all the essentials the tranny is now running stronger again. Like when you change worn out shocks and bushings, the ride feels stiffer and things are more precise and pronounced again.

Marc

[mlupone]

Apparently, the symptoms I was experiencing was due to low tranny fluid. I took it into a shop this morning and the tech added 1 pt of fluid. The manual states to refill 4 qts after pan removal and replacement, but mine needed much more than that. The only thing I could figure is that I have a leak somewhere (but the pan is bone dry) or that the new filter soaked up the extra fluid.

In any event, thanks you guys for your advice.

[Slade901]

The book specs is just an approximation, you have start the vehicle and let it warm it and put the transmission on all gears and measure the fluid level and add more to the top it off with the add level mark. Drive the vehicle for a while and return and measure the level again and if necessary add more fluid to top it off.