Replacing transmission fluid; vacuum pump?

[rjdjbd]

If I only want to remove and replace the transmission fluid (no filter change) on a 4L60-E/4l65-E transmission, is it possible to use a fluid extractor / evacuator / vacuum pump rather than dropping the pan?

Thank you.

[chupe442]

If the tube is small enough, yes... Why not change out the filter? A dirty filter is what cause the issues in the tranny.

[DaveH71]

It's possible to change a portion of the fluid like that, but there will still be about a quart left in the pan. Plus whats left in the converter and transmission body/ cooler and lines.

 

I'd recommend dropping the pan, especially if it hasn't been done in awhile, if ever. The pan needs to be cleaned and it more then likely needs a fresh filter.

[Bob D]

Don't know why they decided to abandon the drain plugs. It's much appreciated in my '03.

Recommend an oil pan w/ drain plug, either from the boneyard or aftermarket (Dorman offers one).

[gmtech4]

Pan drop always , tilt pan to one corner to start draining , easy

[Mxracer72]

I disconnected the lines from my transmission and hooked a clear hose to it, ran the truck for a 10-15 seconds, let it pump out a gallon or so into a bucket with measuring marks, then put that amount back into it and repeat until fluid is coming back out same color as you are putting in.

At home transmission flushing.