transmission filler cap

[PGD1996]

I have a 96 grand am its a manual transmission I cant find the filler cap for the synchromesh oil plz help..

[GTP Dad]

That's because there is no filler cap. It is usually a plug in the side of the transmission that needs to be removed to check the transmission fluid on a manual. Jack the car up and support it with jack stands or use ramps, then look on the side of the transmission about half way up. It can be on either side but is usually a pipe plug. Remove the plug and stick you finger inside the hole to determine the fluid level. If you can't touch the fluid then it is too low. If it runs out of the transmission when you pull the plug then the fluid level is correct. If you add fluid make absolutely certain that you use the proper fluid. Some manuals use light weight fluid some use heavy weight. Also, if you need to add fluid make sure you do not have a leak since they do not often need to be refilled.

[Hoags]

GTP Dad is correct but it is different for the 96's with a manual tranny. I have a 96 Grand Am Gt with the 5 Speed manual tranny. To fill or add the tranny fluid you put it in through the dip stick tube (like you would with an automatic tranny). The tranny has a dipstick it is the handle behind the engine on the right hand side. The handle is either yellow or gray [ For the life of me I can't remember the color of the handle] That's how I did it when I changed my tranny fluid, I asked several of the GM mechanics to make sure that was how it was done.
Good luck. I'm getting ready to change my tranny fluid when the weather breaks here in Pa. Has the price of the fluid come down at all? I paid $11.00/qt.
Good luck,
Dan

[GTP Dad]

Thanks, Hoags for enlightening me. I have never heard of a manual transmission with a dip stick. Must have been on of GM's innovative ideas in the mid 90's like Dex Cool.

[Hoags]

GTPDad, It was (HaHa), Although it does have it's advantages, with a dipstick it's nice to be able to check the fluid level. Before buying the GaGt I had never heard of a Tranny with a dipstick either. Let alone synthetic tranny fluid. I'm used to the good old fashioned lubes (I like something with some body to it). Like you say innovation somethings are better left alone---if it isn't broken don't fix it. Please note the above phrases do not apply to GM engineers.