I. Preparation:
1. Safety First: Jack up the truck securely using jack stands, not just a jack. Chock the wheels. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Gather Supplies:
* New transmission fluid: The correct type and quantity are crucial. Check your owner's manual for the specified fluid (likely Dexron-III or Mercon, but verify). You'll need significantly more than what the capacity states, as you'll be doing a partial drain and refill multiple times.
* New transmission filter: Ensure it's the correct part number for your specific transmission (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E).
* New transmission pan gasket: Almost always necessary when removing the pan.
* Drain pan: Large enough to hold several quarts of fluid.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening the transmission pan bolts to the correct specification.
* Wrenches and sockets: Various sizes, likely including a socket to remove the drain plug from the transmission.
* Funnel: To pour in the new fluid.
* Jack and jack stands: As mentioned above.
* Rags or shop towels: To clean up spills.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Pry bar (optional but helpful): To help break loose stubborn bolts.
II. Procedure:
1. Warm up the transmission: Run the engine until the transmission fluid is warm (but not excessively hot). This helps the fluid flow better.
2. Locate the transmission pan: It's located underneath the vehicle, usually near the rear of the engine.
3. Drain the old fluid: Carefully position your drain pan under the transmission pan. Locate the drain plug on the pan (usually a bolt). Slowly unscrew it, allowing the fluid to drain into the pan. Be careful; the fluid will be hot.
4. Remove the transmission pan: Once the fluid has stopped draining, carefully remove the bolts holding the transmission pan in place. The pan will likely be heavy and contain some remaining fluid. Have your drain pan ready.
5. Replace the filter: The filter is usually attached to the transmission pan. Remove and replace it with the new filter.
6. Replace the pan gasket: Carefully clean the mating surfaces of the pan and the transmission case. Install the new pan gasket according to the instructions provided with the gasket.
7. Reinstall the transmission pan: Carefully reinstall the transmission pan, making sure the gasket is properly seated. Tighten the bolts evenly and to the correct torque specification (consult your repair manual).
8. Refill the transmission: Using a funnel, carefully add the specified amount of transmission fluid (check your owner's manual). It's often recommended to do this in stages, running the engine for a few minutes between additions to allow the fluid to circulate, and then checking the fluid level via the dipstick. You may need to add more fluid than you initially drained.
9. Check the fluid level: Consult your owner's manual for the correct procedure to check the transmission fluid level. This often involves running the engine and then checking the level on the dipstick.
10. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
11. Test drive: Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure everything is working correctly. Recheck the fluid level afterward.
III. Important Considerations:
* Multiple fluid changes: A single drain and refill might not remove all the old fluid. It's beneficial to perform several drain and refill cycles over a few days or weeks, allowing the new fluid to gradually replace the old.
* Transmission type: The exact procedure might vary slightly depending on the type of transmission in your Silverado (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E). Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's transmission for detailed instructions.
* Professional help: If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, take your Silverado to a qualified mechanic. Improperly performing a transmission fluid and filter change can lead to significant transmission damage.
This is a simplified guide. Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual for precise instructions and torque specifications. Failure to follow proper procedures can cause serious damage to your transmission.
