Quick Question About...

[mxzeatr]

I went thru and replaced all of my drivetrain fluids in my 99 ECSB Z71 this weekend. It all went pretty well except for getting the tranny pan off, that was a PITA. But not part of my question. I filled the tranny back up, with about 7 quarts, maybe a little less. Anyways, I started the truck, let idle for 5 minutes or so, then put the truck in reverse, then neutral, then D,3,2,1. Holding it for a few seconds in each gear, I did this three or four times, the fluid level was a bit low of the 'cold' range, so I added until it was within the 1/4" range of 'Cold'. Today was the first time I drove it of any magnitude, drove it about 20 miles non-stop, got home to check the fluid, and it was within the 'Cold' Range, right where it is when its cold. Isn't it supposed to go up into the 'Hot' range after driving for a while? I'm just curious if I need more fluid. Thanks for your help.

 

Eric

[ryank1]

It should rise closer to the hot range, but trans fluid does take awhile to get warm depending on outside temp and driving conditions. Also make sure the truck is on level ground and running when you check the fluid level.

[C & A s Dad]

I recommend 30 minutes of steady hwy driving in warm to hot temps before checking the fluid. I would much rather see it a little low than overfilled.

[mxzeatr]

Well a little update, I drove the truck for about 45 minutes last night after adding a bit of fluid, it was heavy traffic, stop and go, then on the freeway for about 20 minutes, brought it home, and the fluid was still low. So I packed the tranny fluid in the truck, and a rag, went to work this am, its about 40 miles, with a few stops, and I had to get after it twice to pass. I got to work and checked the fluid, it was about 1/4" below the bottom of the 'Hot' range. So I put a splash in and left it, drove it home today, about the same trip, but it was warmer outside, near 80 and traffic was heavy, checked it when I got home, and it was right at the lower level of 'Hot'. So I think I'mgoing to leave it for another day or two and keep checking it, Thursday night I have to drive about 250 miles straight on the highway, so I figure I'll stop about halfway and see whats up with it...All the other fluids are right where they were, so I'm good there...Thanks for the input!