GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Notice: You must flush the cooler whenever you remove a transmission for service. Cooler flushing is essential for SRTA installation, major overhaul, whenever you replace a pump or torque converter, or whenever you suspect that the fluid has been contaminated. Use J 35944-A to flush the cooler.

After filling the transmission with fluid, start the engine and run for 30 seconds. This will remove any residual moisture from the oil cooler. A minimum of two quarts of fluid should flow during a 30-second period. To check the fluid flow, disconnect the return line at the transmission and observe the flow with the engine running. If the fluid flow is insufficient, check the fluid flow by disconnecting the feed line at the cooler. Observe the flow with the engine running.

    • If the flow from the cooler return line at the transmission is insufficient, check the flow rate from the feed line to the cooler. Blockage exists in the transmission or the cooler.
    • If the flow from the transmission feed line to the cooler is insufficient, the transmission is the cause of the fluid flow problem.
    • If the flow from the transmission feed line to the cooler is sufficient, but flow from the cooler return line to the transmission is insufficient, inspect the cooler pipes and fittings. Then repeat the cooler flushing procedure. If the flow is still insufficient, replace the cooler.