Transmission Fluid Cooler Flow Test

NOTE: The transaxle linkage adjustment, fluid level and line pressure must be within specification before carrying out this test. Refer to transaxle linkage adjustment procedure. For transmission fluid level checking procedures, refer to Preliminary Inspection. For transaxle line pressure testing, refer to Special Testing Procedures.

1. Check level of transmission fluid and fill as necessary.
2. Remove fluid level indicator from fluid filler tube and install funnel in fluid filler tube.
3. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position on a hoist. Inspect the cooler lines for damage. Install new coolant lines as needed.
4. Disconnect cooler return line (rear line) by separating the tubing from the cooler line rubber hose.
5. Plug the cooler line to avoid transmission fluid loss.
6. Connect one end of a hose to the cooler return line hose and route the other end of the hose up to a point where it can be inserted into the funnel at the fluid filler tube.
7. Start the engine and run at idle with transaxle in NEUTRAL range until ATF fluid is warm. Temperature is important to the flow rate measurement. Carry out the Fluid Cooler Flow Test.
^ Option 1: Once fluid flow is void of air, remove the rubber hose from the funnel and insert it into liter container. After 15 seconds, install the hose into the funnel and measure the amount of ATF in the container. The rate of flow should be approximately 28-34 oz. (0.83-1.0 liter) in 15 seconds.
^ Option 2: Once fluid flow is void of air, remove the rubber hose from the funnel and insert it into a liter container. As soon as one liter (1.06 quart) is dispensed into the container, install the hose into the funnel. One liter of ATF should flow through the cooling system in approximately 15 - 17 seconds.
8. Once adequate flow is determined, shut off the engine, remove the extension hose and reassemble the cooler line with the constant tension clamp.
9. If flow is not adequate, stop the engine. Disconnect the hose from the cooler return line and connect it to the converter-out line. If flow is now liberal, carry out backflushing and cleaning procedure. Refer to transaxle fluid cooler diagnosis. If flow is still not liberal, repair the pump or converter.
10. Check ATF level and adjust as required.

Transmission Fluid Cooler Tube Replacement
When fluid leakage is found at the transmission fluid cooler tubes or installation of new cooler tubes is necessary.