How to Drain/Refill Automatic Transmission

Correct. My first final fluid level check was at temp but with the engine off. Almost a full quart drained out. Drove it about 5 miles, still slight shuddering. Reread the directions, noticed the mistake, and got back into temp check mode and checked overflow. Nothing drained. Added the full quart back in, temp check mode, checked level again with engine running, only about 1/4 a quart drained. Still shuddering.

Maybe it will just take a few miles before the LubeGuard will deglaze the clutch like @gearcruncher said?

 

I just went through hell and back trying to get my tundras trans back to normal! I’m about 90% back to normal at this point. Btw I’m running about 9 quarts total of the lubegard fluid and it seems to be taking it very well.

One thing I have learned is DROP YOUR PAN AND CLEAN OUT THE GUNK!

 

https://www.tundras.com/threads/hard-shifts-after-pan-drain-and-fill.63579/

Here is some good info.

 

I assume it’s ok to skip the temp check mode if you are using a scangauge to monitor temp, right?

 

yes, but make sure you know the temp range. there are differences between model years. I think 2005-2011 range is a little lower than 2015+

 

In the process of checking my level I removed the fill plug first and tried to get off the overflow plug. However, for some reason the 5mm Hex is too big. I have tried multiple 5mm hex tools in my tool box, all of them don't fit. Even tried the 4mm, too small. Does anyone have any idea what WTH is going on here? Did have the dealership change the oil 2 years ago, maybe they put in a different plug? Getting frustrated here, please help. Thanks.

 

The only explanation I can come up with is that it's a bit stripped. Verify that you're using a 5 mm allen wrench, then give it a light tap with a hammer. That can sometimes seat it and give it enough bite to grap

 

Yeah, I did that too. Seems to not want to go in.

 

If all else fails, grab it sideways with a pair of ViseGrips

 

If the 5mm hex is too big, there must be some mud/rust/junk accumulated in the hex hole. Clean it out real good and spray some lube in there. Scrape the hole with a pick.

 

Also if your planning on doing the drain and fills a few more times I would go ahead and purchase a new drain bolt. Yes a drain bolt cause they have the same thread count and you don’t have to worry about Allen heads no more.

 

Any update @zbo2a?

 

I’d worry about mixing them up.

 

I looked in the 4runner forum but couldn't find anything. Is the drain/fill and temp check process the same on a 2013 4runner?

 

More or less, the temp check mode is a little different. The D will flash instead of having an at temp light.

 

After reaching proper temp, and the temp light stays on. Should you keep the engine running when checking the transmission level?

 

Yes! Let it drain out the over flow until it’s just a trickle, plug it, then turn off the truck.

 

Thanks, sorry should of read the first post again before posting this question. Just got to that part when you sent your reply. Thanks.

 

yes

 

I have read the engine stays on