Safety First:
* Work on a level surface: This ensures accurate fluid levels.
* Wear safety glasses: Transmission fluid can splash.
* Use jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Dispose of used transmission fluid properly: It's hazardous waste. Check your local regulations.
* Consult your owner's manual: This will provide specific torque specifications and other important information.
Method: Multiple Partial Drain and Fills
This is the safest and most effective method for a DIYer:
1. Warm up the transmission: Drive the car for 15-20 minutes to warm the transmission fluid. This helps it flow better.
2. Locate the transmission pan: This is located underneath the transmission. You'll need to consult a repair manual or diagram to pinpoint its exact location on your specific Caprice model (some have different pan designs).
3. Prepare your tools and materials: You'll need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Drain pan
* Socket wrench and the correct socket to remove the drain plug (usually 1/2" or 9/16")
* New transmission fluid (Dexron III; check your owner's manual for the exact specification). Buy enough for several changes.
* Funnel
* Torque wrench (to tighten the drain plug to the correct specification)
* New transmission filter (often located in the pan; some models don't have replaceable filters)
* Rags or shop towels
* Gloves
4. Drain the fluid: Position the drain pan under the transmission pan, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Let the fluid drain completely. Note the amount drained – this is a good indication of how many partial fills you'll need to do.
5. Remove and replace the transmission pan (if replacing filter): If you're replacing the filter, you'll need to remove the transmission pan. This can be messy, so be prepared. Carefully clean the pan and replace the gasket (usually a reusable rubber gasket, but check the manual). Install the new filter.
6. Reinstall the transmission pan (if applicable): Tighten the pan bolts according to the torque specifications in your owner's manual.
7. Refill the transmission: Using a funnel, add the recommended amount of new transmission fluid. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct capacity. Typically you will fill it to the "add" line on the transmission dipstick.
8. Check the fluid level: With the engine running (and the transmission shifted through all gears), check the fluid level on the dipstick. Add more fluid if necessary. Let the car idle for a few minutes to allow the fluid to settle.
9. Repeat steps 4-8: Drive the car for 50-100 miles, then repeat the entire process (drain, refill). You may need to do this 3-4 times to effectively replace a substantial portion of the fluid in the system.
10. Final check: After the final drain and refill, check the fluid level one last time.
Important Notes:
* Consult a Repair Manual: This process is simplified. A detailed repair manual specific to your 1992 Chevy Caprice will be invaluable and provide torque specifications and other crucial information.
* Professional Flush: If you're uncomfortable performing this procedure, consider having a professional mechanic perform a transmission fluid flush. This is the most effective method for complete fluid replacement.
This process is time-consuming and messy. Take your time, be careful, and always refer to a repair manual for your specific vehicle's details. Improperly performing this task can damage your transmission.
