changing transmission fluid

[makeall6]

Long time Nautique owner and always have problems changing transmission fluid. I currently own a 2004 196 with Excalibur 330 engine and PCM tranny. I am trying to use a suction pump to change fluid. Even though the dip stick showed a full transmission, I can only suck out about less than 1 quart. The dip stick now shows no fluid. I put 1 quart back in and now the dip stick shows full, actually a little over full. Shouldn't it hold 2 quarts? Also, trying to get that little tube from the pump into the dip stick hole is not an easy task. Any secrets to this procedure? Any thought will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Tom

[AirTool]

RE: changing transmission fluid

Get a brand new and clean piece of 1/4" o.d. copper tubing and cut it at about 20" or so. Be sure to clean the burrs (and dust if you saw) ...you don't want that in your tranny. Insert it about 4 or 5 inches into some 1/4" i.d. x 5/16" o.d. clear, flexible tubing available by the foot at Lowe's. Put a small worm type clamp over the hose and tighten it down so no fluid leaks out or air leaks in. Then attach that biz to your suction pump.

With the 1/4" copper tubing, you will be able to get all the way down into the sump easily. Note I sucked 2 quarts plus 1 cup out of mine. I cautiously put only 2 quarts back in and the level (fairly hot) was good. I don't know the volume of the trans cooler, and I really felt compelled to put in another cup. But left it alone. Transmission fluid really expands with heat....so some day when I'm pulling four footers or a show pyramid, I know the fluid won't swell up and blow out the vent.

Be sure to get your tranny hot before changing the fluid....and be careful to not get burned.

AirTool

[makeall6]

RE: changing transmission fluid

AirTool...thanks for the quick reply. That is exactly the info I needed. Thanks again.

Tom