Tools and Materials You'll Likely Need:
* New Transmission Fluid: The correct type and amount are specified in your owner's manual. Use the recommended fluid; using the wrong type can severely damage the transmission.
* Drain Pan: Large enough to hold the old fluid.
* Wrench(es): Appropriate sizes for the drain plug and fill plug on the transmission. These sizes vary depending on the transmission type (AX-5, AX-15, AW4, etc.).
* Funnel: To avoid spills while adding new fluid.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safe working conditions. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Torque Wrench: To tighten the drain and fill plugs to the correct specification. This is crucial to avoid leaks and damage.
* Gloves: To protect your hands from the old transmission fluid.
* Rags or Shop Towels: For cleanup.
* Transmission Fluid Pump (Optional but Recommended, especially for automatics): Makes refilling much easier and cleaner.
Procedure (General - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
* Locate the Transmission: Familiarize yourself with the location of the transmission drain and fill plugs.
* Warm Up the Transmission: Run the engine for 10-15 minutes to warm the fluid, making it flow more easily.
2. Draining the Old Fluid:
* Access the Drain Plug: Position the drain pan under the drain plug. This is usually located on the bottom of the transmission.
* Remove the Drain Plug: Carefully remove the drain plug using the appropriate wrench. The fluid will drain out, so be prepared for some mess. Let it drain completely.
3. Removing the Fill Plug (Important):
* Locate the Fill Plug: Find the fill plug; it's often located on the side of the transmission. Before draining completely, loosen the fill plug to verify you can access it and remove it fully. You might need to use an extension to reach it. If you can't remove the fill plug, you'll need to find another access point or seek professional help.
4. Replacing the Drain Plug:
* Clean the Drain Plug: Clean the drain plug and its mating surface.
* Install the Drain Plug: Replace the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque. Use a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening.
5. Adding New Fluid (Automatic Transmission):
* For automatic transmissions, this step is more complicated. You often need to add fluid until it starts coming out of the fill hole while the engine is running. Consult your repair manual for the exact procedure. This may involve using a pump to add fluid accurately.
5. Adding New Fluid (Manual Transmission):
* Fill the Transmission: Use a funnel to pour in the correct amount of new transmission fluid through the fill hole. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact quantity needed.
6. Replacing the Fill Plug:
* Clean the Fill Plug: Clean the fill plug and mating surface.
* Install the Fill Plug: Install and tighten the fill plug to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
7. Check Fluid Level (if applicable):
* Some transmissions have a dipstick. If yours does, check the fluid level according to the instructions in your owner's manual.
8. Clean Up:
* Dispose of the old transmission fluid properly. Check local regulations for proper disposal methods.
Important Notes:
* Automatic vs. Manual: The procedure for changing transmission fluid is significantly different for automatic and manual transmissions. This guide provides a general overview. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for the precise procedure.
* Transmission Type: The specific type of transmission in your 1995 Jeep Wrangler (AX-5, AX-15, AW4, etc.) will determine the exact fluid type and capacity.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this task, it's best to take your Jeep to a qualified mechanic.
This information is for general guidance only. Incorrectly performing this procedure can cause serious damage to your vehicle. Always refer to your owner's manual and/or a professional repair manual before attempting any automotive repairs.
