However, if you're determined to do it yourself, understand the risks and proceed with extreme caution. Here's a *general overview*, but this is not a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your Durango's transmission type:
What you'll need:
* A repair manual: Absolutely essential for your specific year and transmission type (e.g., 4.7L V8 with 4-speed automatic, or other combinations). It will show diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial procedural steps.
* Jack and jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Transmission fluid: The correct type and amount are specified in your repair manual. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage your transmission.
* Transmission fluid pan: A new one is highly recommended.
* Transmission filter: A new one is also necessary.
* Drain pan: Large enough to hold several quarts of fluid.
* Wrench(es): Various sizes to remove the drain plug, fill plug, and pan bolts. Possibly a socket set.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specifications – crucial for preventing leaks.
* Funnel: For adding new fluid.
* Gloves: To protect your hands from the hot fluid.
* Rags or shop towels: For cleaning up spills.
* Optional: Transmission fluid pump (for easier refilling)
General Steps (Again, consult your repair manual for specific instructions):
1. Warm up the transmission: Drive the vehicle for 10-15 minutes to warm the fluid. This makes it flow more easily.
2. Secure the vehicle: Safely raise the Durango using the jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Locate the transmission pan: This is usually located underneath the transmission.
4. Drain the fluid: Carefully remove the drain plug, allowing the old fluid to drain into your drain pan.
5. Remove the transmission pan: Remove the bolts holding the transmission pan in place. Be prepared for some fluid spillage.
6. Replace the filter: Remove the old filter and install the new one.
7. Replace the pan gasket: Install a new gasket on the transmission pan.
8. Reinstall the transmission pan: Carefully reinstall the transmission pan and tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (found in your repair manual).
9. Refill the transmission: Add the correct amount of transmission fluid through the fill plug. Use a pump if available. Check the fluid level using the dipstick (if applicable; some transmissions don't have one).
10. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
11. Check the fluid level again: After driving a short distance, recheck the fluid level.
Important Considerations:
* Multiple Fluid Changes: A single drain-and-fill won't replace all the old fluid. Multiple changes may be necessary to achieve a significant improvement.
* Transmission type: Your Durango's transmission type (e.g., 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic) significantly impacts the procedure. Consult your repair manual.
* Fluid specification: Using the incorrect fluid type can damage your transmission.
Again, strongly consider taking your Durango to a qualified mechanic for a transmission fluid service. This job is far more complex than it might seem and risks causing significant damage if not performed correctly.
