Here's a general outline. This is not a complete, step-by-step guide and should not be considered a substitute for a proper repair manual specific to your vehicle's transmission type (3-speed, 4-speed, etc.). You absolutely *need* a repair manual.
1. Gather Supplies:
* New Transmission Fluid: The correct type and amount are crucial. Your owner's manual or a parts store (providing your year, make, model, and engine size) will tell you the exact specification (Dexron III, Dexron VI, etc.). Buy more than you think you need, as you'll likely lose some.
* New Transmission Fluid Filter (if applicable): Some transmissions have a filter; others don't. Check your manual.
* Drain Pan: A large capacity pan to catch the old fluid.
* Wrench(es): You'll need the correct size wrench for the drain plug and the fill plug. Possibly a socket wrench set.
* Funnel: To avoid spilling new fluid.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Torque Wrench (Highly Recommended): To tighten the drain and fill plugs to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can damage the threads.
* Gloves: Transmission fluid can be messy.
* Rags or Shop Towels: For cleanup.
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential! It will show you exactly where the drain and fill plugs are located, the correct type of fluid, and the proper torque specifications.
2. Preparation:
* Consult Your Repair Manual: This is the most important step. It will guide you through the specific procedure for your car's transmission.
* Warm up the transmission: Run the engine for 10-15 minutes to warm the fluid, making it flow more easily.
* Secure the vehicle: Jack up the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Draining the Fluid:
* Locate the drain plug: Your repair manual will show you its location. It's usually on the bottom of the transmission pan.
* Position the drain pan: Place the drain pan under the drain plug.
* Remove the drain plug: Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. The old fluid will drain out – be prepared for it to be dirty and potentially smelly.
4. Removing and Replacing the Filter (if applicable):
* Locate the filter: Your repair manual will show you the location and the procedure for removing and replacing it.
5. Replacing the Transmission Pan (if applicable, some pans require removal):
* Some transmissions require dropping the transmission pan, which can sometimes be a challenging process. Your repair manual is crucial here.
6. Refilling the Transmission:
* Locate the fill plug: Your repair manual will show you its location. It's usually on the side of the transmission.
* Remove the fill plug: Carefully remove the fill plug.
* Add new fluid: Use a funnel to carefully pour in the new transmission fluid. Your repair manual will tell you how much fluid to add.
* Check the fluid level: There will be a method to check the fluid level – again, consult your repair manual for the precise procedure (often using a dipstick).
7. Reassembly:
* Replace the fill plug: Tighten it to the correct torque specification (found in your repair manual).
* Replace the drain plug (and pan if applicable): Tighten it to the correct torque specification.
* Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
8. Final Check:
* Check for leaks: Inspect the area around the drain and fill plugs for any leaks.
* Check the fluid level: Re-check the fluid level after running the engine for a short time.
Again, this is a highly simplified overview. Use a repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy Monte Carlo to ensure you perform this procedure correctly and safely. Incorrectly performing this job can cause significant damage to your transmission. If you're unsure about any step, it's far better to seek professional help.
