Before you begin ANY work on your vehicle:
* Consult your owner's manual: It's the best source for specific information regarding your van's transmission.
* Safety first: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Transmission fluid is hot when drained and can be harmful to skin. Work in a well-ventilated area.
* Gather your tools: You'll need a drain pan (large enough), a wrench (the correct size for the drain plug), a new drain plug gasket (if needed), and possibly a funnel. For automatic transmissions, you'll need a way to access the transmission pan (sometimes involving removing other components).
Automatic Transmission:
1. Locate the transmission pan: This is usually located on the bottom of the transmission. It's a relatively large, somewhat shallow pan.
2. Warm up the transmission: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the fluid, making it flow more easily. Don't overheat it.
3. Position the drain pan: Place the drain pan under the transmission pan.
4. Locate and remove the drain plug: This is usually a bolt on the bottom of the pan. Carefully unscrew it, letting the fluid drain into the pan. Be careful – it will be hot!
5. Let it drain completely: This can take a considerable amount of time, even an hour or more.
6. Replace the drain plug and gasket: Once drained, replace the drain plug, ensuring a new gasket is used (if needed). Tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your manual).
7. Remove and clean the transmission pan: This often requires removing bolts around the perimeter of the pan. Clean any debris from the pan and the magnet inside (if present). Replace the pan gasket if necessary.
8. Refill the transmission: This requires carefully measuring the new fluid and adding it through the fill tube (location varies; consult your manual). Overfilling can be damaging. Use the correct type of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual.
Manual Transmission:
Draining a manual transmission is generally simpler, but still requires care.
1. Locate the drain plug: This is typically found on the side or bottom of the transmission case.
2. Warm up the transmission (slightly): A few minutes of running the engine will help.
3. Position the drain pan: Place the drain pan under the drain plug.
4. Remove the drain plug: Carefully unscrew it, letting the fluid drain into the pan.
5. Let it drain completely: This will take time.
6. Replace the drain plug: Once drained, replace the drain plug and tighten securely.
7. Refill the transmission: This usually involves removing a fill plug (location varies; consult your manual) and adding the correct type and amount of transmission fluid. Consult your manual for the correct procedure – it may involve using a special filler tool.
Important Considerations:
* Fluid type: Use only the correct type and amount of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage your transmission.
* Torque specifications: Tighten all bolts and plugs to the correct torque to prevent leaks and damage.
* Complete drain and refill: A complete drain and refill might not completely remove all the old fluid. A multiple-drain-and-refill process might be necessary for best results. Consider using a power flush performed by a professional.
This information is for general guidance only. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and detailed instructions specific to your 1999 Dodge Ram van. If you are unsure about any part of the process, consult a qualified mechanic. Improper transmission fluid changes can lead to significant and expensive repairs.
