That said, if you're determined to tackle it yourself, here's a general overview of the process. This is not a complete how-to guide, and you should consult a repair manual specific to your 1996 Chevy Lumina van's transaxle (likely a 3-speed automatic). Repair manuals provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams crucial for success.
1. Safety First:
* Jack up the van securely: Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack. Chock the wheels.
* Disconnect the battery: This prevents accidental shorts.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves: Used transmission fluid is messy and can be irritating.
2. Preparation:
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools including sockets, wrenches (metric), a transmission jack or engine hoist (highly recommended), drain pan, fluid pump (to remove old fluid), seal installer/remover tool, new transaxle seal (ensure it's the correct one for your vehicle!), rags, shop towels, and possibly a torque wrench.
* Drain the transmission fluid: This is essential before you start disassembly.
* Consult your repair manual: Identify the specific steps for your van's transaxle. The location and procedure for removing the seal will vary.
3. Removal:
* Access the Transaxle Seal: This will likely require removing parts of the driveshaft, possibly the axle, and potentially the torque converter. Your repair manual will detail the specific steps.
* Remove the old seal: Carefully remove the old seal without damaging the transaxle housing. A seal puller tool is very helpful.
4. Installation:
* Clean the Seal Surface: Thoroughly clean the transaxle housing where the new seal will sit, ensuring it's free of debris.
* Install the new seal: Use a seal installer tool to avoid damaging the new seal. Ensure the seal is seated correctly.
* Reassemble: Carefully reassemble all components in the reverse order of removal. Refer constantly to your repair manual for the correct order and torque specifications.
5. Refill and Test:
* Refill the transmission: Use the correct type and amount of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual.
* Start the van: Let it idle for a few minutes, checking for leaks.
* Check fluid level: Ensure the fluid level is correct and check for leaks over the next few days.
Important Considerations:
* Fluid Type: Using the incorrect transmission fluid can damage the transmission. Consult your owner's manual.
* Torque Specifications: Incorrect torque can lead to damage. A torque wrench is essential.
* Complexity: This is a complex repair. If you're not comfortable with mechanical work, it's best to leave it to a professional.
* Cost of Parts: The cost of a new seal is relatively low, but the cost of labor from a mechanic can be high. Weigh the cost of your time and the risk of making a mistake against the cost of professional repair.
Again, this is a general outline. A repair manual specific to your 1996 Chevy Lumina van is absolutely essential for successful completion of this repair. Failure to follow the correct procedures can lead to serious damage to your transmission, requiring a costly replacement. If you are unsure about any part of this process, please seek professional help.
