How to Add Transmission Fluid in a Duramax
by Grace MclainThe automatic transmission fluid inside of a Duramax diesel engine is designed to protect all of the internal gears, bearings and seals. When the diesel engine is running and the transmission is engaged, the automatic transmission fluid is pumped out of the transmission pan and into the transmission. The transmission fluid then bonds to all of the internal parts to prevent excessive heat friction. Change the automatic transmission fluid inside of your Duramax diesel engine between 50,000 and 75,000 miles to prevent the fluid from breaking down.
Step 1
Drive the Duramax around for about 20 minutes to heat up the transmission fluid. The hot transmission fluid will give you a more accurate reading on the dipstick. Park the Duramax on level ground and open the hood.
Step 2
Locate the automatic transmission fluid dipstick on the rear of the engine. Pull the dipstick out and look at where the fluid level is. Wipe away the excess fluid from the dipstick with a shop rag.
Step 3
Slide the long neck funnel into the dipstick holding tube. Pour Dextron VI automatic transmission fluid into the funnel until the fluid level is near or at the full mark on the dipstick. A completely empty transmission on a Duramax diesel engine will hold around 13 quarts of fluid. A regular drain and fill will take 7.4 quarts of fluid to fill the transmission with fluid.
Step 4
Pull the funnel back out of the dipstick tube and reinsert the dipstick. Close the hood.
References
- "2005 Silverado Sierra/Sierra Denali (CK8-Platform) Truck Service Manual Set;" Helm Incorporated; 2006
Tips
- There is an upper and lower line on the bottom of the dipstick. The upper line is the "Full" mark, and the lower line is the "Low" line.
Things You'll Need
- Long neck funnel
- Shop rag
- Dextron VI automatic transmission fluid
Warnings
- Wear protective gloves, if necessary, when checking hot transmission fluid.
Writer Bio
Grace Mclain has been writing professionally since 1998. Her articles have appeared on eHow.com, Answerbag.com and LIVESTRONG.COM, and she specializes in automotive and business topics. McIain has a professional writing certificate from JB Hunt in Little Rock, Ark.
